Children need to develop healthy oral care habits at a young age so they will carry them into their teenage and adult years, and in this review from a family dentist, we discuss several ways that parents can help protect their children's oral health with healthy habits. We also discuss how a family dentist can help with oral hygiene development for children.
Specifically, parents can teach good oral hygiene habits to their children by helping their children brush their teeth and floss until they are able to do so on their own, ensuring that they use a fluoride toothpaste, and visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleaning visits every four to six months. Here is a more in-depth look at each of these tips from a family dentist.
There is no definitive age as to when a child is able to brush their own teeth. Instead, parents should keep track of their child’s progress and continue brushing for them (and with them) until they are ready to do it by themselves. Kids are usually able to start brushing their own teeth between the ages of five and six. Once they start doing so, watch them closely, and remind them to stay consistent with their oral care routine. These oral hygiene habits and routines are likely to carry into their teenage and adult years.
Consistency is essential when helping children develop good oral hygiene habits. Unfortunately, most children do not fully understand the importance of brushing, so it is important to remind them about the times that they should brush. It should ideally be once in the morning and once before bedtime. Parents will also need to help their child use a proper toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Children should understand the purpose of visiting the family dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. Having your child visit the family dentist two to three times a year helps them get used to seeing a dentist, thus reducing the risk of dental anxiety or dental phobia. Perhaps more importantly, regular visits to the dentist are ideal for keeping the teeth clean, protecting the teeth from cavities, and promptly identifying and treating any oral health issues that do arise between visits.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Family Dentist in Delray Beach, FL
Whether you need family dentistry services for yourself or your child, we encourage you to schedule a visit with our family dentistry practice today. We take great pride in helping our patients achieve optimal oral health and a healthy smile that they can maintain for decades. Contact us today by phone or message to schedule a visit. We would love to hear from you!
Request an appointment or call R & R Dentistry PA at 561-330-5188 for an appointment in our Delray Beach office.
Preventive dental care from your family dentist is a priority. After all, preventing infections and damage is easier than going through many dental treatments. Having this type of dentist will allow you to have the upper hand when it comes to your oral health. Here are the different preventive dental care options that you can…
Oral health is integral to your overall health, and good dental hygiene is essential to maintain healthy teeth and gums. A family dentist not only helps to maintain healthy teeth and gums, but they also play an important role in preventing future dental problems. This blog will explore a family dentist's role in preventive dental…
Taking young children to the family dentist can be overwhelming at times, especially because they are more prone to dental fear and anxiety. However, dental care is essential for children, just as it is for adults, and should start at a very young age. The American Dental Association recommends that children visit the dentist as…