Best Practices for Kids’ Healthy Teeth

Once kids get their first tooth, parents start to wonder how they can help their child establish good dental habits. As a parent, you want to help your children develop good dental hygiene, since poor dental health is all too common and can lead to complications in adulthood such as more serious diseases like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. Below are simple tips from Platte Valley Dental Group for helping your children develop and maintain healthy teeth.

Lead By Example

Be a Role Model: Kids love to imitate those around them, so being a good role model is one of the best ways to show children how important dental health is.
Demonstrate Good Oral Health Habits: Brush and floss with your kids, rather than sending them into the bathroom on their own. Make it part of the daily routine.

Keep Dental Appointments

Regular Checkups: Keep a regular routine of going to the dentist for regular checkups.
First Dental Appointment: Your child should have their first dental appointment within 6 months of their first tooth or their first birthday, whichever comes first, and then twice a year after that.

Eat Healthy Foods

Avoid Sugary Drinks and Food: This can help with not only your child’s overall health, but it can also create a conversation about cavities.

Brush and Floss

Brush Twice a Day: Brushing twice a day for at least 2 minutes is one of the best ways to keep your mouth clean and healthy.
Use Tartar Dye: Use a tartar dye if desired to be sure all the teeth surfaces are cleaned and that brushing has happened long enough to be effective at removing plaque.
Utilize Apps: There are also apps available to make brushing and caring for your teeth fun.

These are some great ways to help keep your child’s mouth clean and healthy. Call our Scottsbluff, NE office today at (308) 633-1111 to schedule an appointment with us. We’re always happy to answer any questions you may have!