February is dedicated to celebrating Children’s Dental Health Month. This dental holiday was created back in 1941 and started as a one-day event progressing to what it is now—a month-long celebration to bring awareness of the importance of children’s oral health. The goal is for parents, caregivers, dentists, and teachers to work together to teach children to develop healthy habits that will ultimately ensure proper dental skills are mastered that will carry children through to adulthood. Following this same idea, we have created tips that can help you teach your young loved ones proper oral health. Continue reading to learn more.
Proper Oral Hygiene Starts At Home
Teaching children a consistent routine of brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits at a young age will make them aware of their dental expectations. The combination of all of these things will help keep tooth decay away, therefore minimizing your dental expenses.
Oral hygiene for children can begin in infancy. Even before the first tooth breaks through, the gums can be cleaned gently with a damp washcloth. This technique helps to clean away milk residue and bacteria left on the gumline. Once the first tooth breaks through, the routine can be changed to a baby toothbrush, using the same technique as with the washcloth. After the arrival of the first baby teeth is the perfect time for the first dental visit.
Moving into toddler years, the child is ready to begin learning to brush their teeth with guidance and help. One great strategy is to let the child brush first, and the adult can finish up, making sure that it was done properly.
How To Get Your Children To Brush Their Teeth
You might be thinking to yourself that all of this talk about brushing teeth is easier said than done. We all know that children don’t always like to do what is asked of them. We have compiled some tips to help motivate your child to brush their teeth:
- Start a fun morning and nighttime routine with a special element such as a timer or special song.
- Take the child on a special shopping trip and let them choose a special toothbrush and toothpaste. A special character always seems to encourage the desire to brush teeth.
- Reward good brushing behavior with a special sticker or favorite bedtime story.
If you have a young child who is in need of a dental appointment or you are unsure how to teach your child to properly brush their teeth, please reach out to our office located in Washington, DC to schedule an appointment. We are always available with the help you need. We look forward to meeting your child soon!