5 Simple Ways to Keep Your Kids’ Teeth Healthy

Roughly 20% of children aged 5 through 11 have at least one decaying tooth. And even though the numbers are improving, 43% of children between the age of 2 and 19 have cavities.

Keep Your Kids’ Teeth Healthy

That’s the bad news. The good news is these problems are preventable. It starts with establishing oral hygiene habits essential for your child’s health.

But where do you start? Read on to learn some simple dental tips to keep your kids’ teeth healthy and smiling.

Teach Oral Hygiene

When your child grows teeth, it’s time to teach them proper oral hygiene. It may be challenging, but you and your child will soon establish a successful working routine.

The bottom line is that your child needs to brush twice a day for two minutes each time, and they need to floss once every day.

The key is to give them ownership and motivation. Let them choose their toothbrush, maybe one with their favorite cartoon character, and a tasty toothpaste. Then, please reward them, such as stickers or a big hug, for a well-done job.

More minor children may need your help flossing their teeth. Be patient and know they will learn to floss on their own in time.

Consistent brushing and flossing are the keys to keeping your child’s mouth clean and free of cavities.

Be a Role Model

You’ve heard the saying that kids are “like a sponge.” They absorb what they see and learn by watching others.

Understanding that kids imitate what they see, be a good role model by practicing strong oral hygiene habits. Brushing and flossing alongside your kids is an excellent way to practice what you preach. Make the experience positive rather than treating it as a chore.

Avoid Sugar

As we know, sugar harms our bodies. But unfortunately, our teeth are not immune to the damage sugar causes.

The bacteria in your mouth thrive off sugar in your teeth, leading to plaque buildup and cavities. To control sugar damage, limit sugary foods and drinks as much as possible.

Limit your child from eating too many sugary snacks and sodas. And remember that not all sugary sources are so obvious. For example, bread and rice convert to simple sugars that harm teeth.

Brush with Fluoridated Toothpaste

Another way for your child to avoid dental problems is to strengthen their tooth enamel. Fluoridated toothpaste accomplishes this goal through a process called remineralization.

Choose fluoridated toothpaste with the ADA seal of approval, ensuring that it is safe and effective.

Get Dental Checkups Regularly

Children should know you don’t just visit the dentist when you have a chipped tooth.

Your child should have their first dental checkup within six months of growing their first tooth, or their first birthday, whichever comes first. From then on, they’ll need to visit the dentist twice a year.

This is another chance to be a role model by keeping a regular habit of going to the dentist twice a year. Then, when you keep your appointments, your kids see a practice they will make their own.

Try to find a dental office similar to virginianewsmiles.com/stafford-va which can accommodate both you and your children, allowing them to witness you being cared for by your dentist.

Final Word on Dental Tips for Your Child

The medical community is discovering many links to problems throughout the body, gum disease, and poor oral hygiene. In addition, the health of our mouths is directly correlated to the vitality of our physical and mental health.

That’s why getting our children used to practicing solid oral hygiene early is so important. Following the dental tips above, your child can incorporate dental care into their daily lifestyle with little thought or effort. Their daily habits will become second nature, and they’ll enjoy healthy teeth and gums for the long term.

If you found this article helpful, please check out our health tips to keep your eyes in good shape now.


Diana Muniz
Diana Muniz

With over 20+ years of experience in a variety of corporate and entrepreneurial environments, Diana has developed a great understanding of Marketing Strategy, Brand Development, Customer Success, Public Relations and Management. Her internal drive for developing others and external brands, has allowed her to work in some of the largest cities in the world including Milan, Paris, NY, Mexico, and the Middle East. This experience has been fundamental to Diana’s success and ability to communicate cross-culturally.

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