Did you know that nearly half of all children in the US have had a cavity in their baby teeth? Or that more than half of adolescents have had at least one cavity in their permanent teeth?
Some parents may think it’s okay to pay less attention to your child’s teeth because they’ll grow new ones. However, if your children’s teeth and dental habits weren’t healthy before, then they likely won’t be after as well.
That’s why we’re giving you 6 easy ways to keep your children’s teeth clean!
- Wipe your baby’s gums
Before your baby gets teeth, you can keep their mouth and gums healthy by wiping their gums with a clean cloth twice a day.
Once their teeth start appearing, you should start brushing their teeth. It’s important that you use soft bristles and only water to prevent your baby from swallowing too much fluoride.
- Teach your child to brush twice a day
It is important for your child to develop healthy habits as early as possible. Teaching them to brush twice a day will not only keep their baby teeth healthy but also ensure that their adult teeth stay healthy as they come in.
It is critical that parents lead by example as they’re more likely to follow what you do, rather than what you don’t. And your dental health is just as important as theirs.
- Make flossing a habit
Flossing is just as important as brushing your teeth. Making sure your children develop the habit of flossing along with brushing twice a day will ensure their dental health for years to come.
- Give your child healthy, low-sugar food and drinks
Sugar is the main proponent of tooth decay and poor dental hygiene. Cutting back on high-sugar foods and drinks will not only keep your children’s teeth healthy and clean, but it can also improve their physical health!
So make sure to avoid sugary drinks and foods like sodas and candies.
- Protect your child’s teeth with fluoride
Fluoride is a mineral used in toothpaste that helps to strengthen the enamel of your teeth and protect them from decay.
Fluoride toothpaste or fluoride mouthwash, can both make sure your child is safe from tooth decay. However, it’s important to make sure your child doesn’t swallow anything containing fluoride as it is toxic in large doses.
- Visit your dentist every 6 months
No matter how well your child brushes their teeth, there is a certain amount of build-up that they cannot prevent. Making sure your child sees their dentist every 6 months makes sure that their teeth are not only clean, but are developing healthily.
If your child hasn’t seen a dentist in the past 6 months, we encourage you to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
Schedule an appointment today by calling (718) 828-6610 or by scheduling one here on our website!
