At first, parents take on an active role in protecting a child’s smile by cleaning their teeth. Over time, kids can develop the coordination and understanding to start brushing and flossing on their own. How can you make sure your kids are ready to do this, and how can you be sure they are doing a good job of cleaning their teeth without your help? Our St. Louis, MO dentist’s office can provide important oral health care support and guidance for parents thanks to our pediatric dental services. We can help you make the dentist’s office feel safe and friendly by providing an initial “well baby” exam, and we can provide information on caring for their teeth as they start to age. When they are ready, you can model good oral hygiene habits for your kids, and provide encouragement to make sure they effectively protect their smiles!
The Right Encouragement Can Help Kids Develop Good Habits At An Early Age
It is important not to rush into the point where your child will brush their own teeth. If they lack the coordination to do so effectively, giving them this responsibility can increase their risk for cavity problems. Before this phase of their life begins, you can prepare them for this task by talking to them about the importance of good oral hygiene, and by showing them what effective habits feel like. Dr. Johnson can also help with this by providing instructions and information during their pediatric dental visits.
Emphasize The Importance Of Being Thorough When Brushing And Flossing
A person at any age should put time and effort into thoroughly cleaning their teeth if they want to avoid dental fillings, or any other restorative work to address decay. As a child begins to brush and floss on their own, check in with them to see that they are taking these tasks seriously. To help them while you are not in the room, you can put a timer in their bathroom. Set the timer for two minutes, and make sure they know to continue brushing until that time is up.
Make Sure Your Child Protects Their Teeth Throughout The Day
While it is hard to overstate the importance of good brushing and flossing, remember that choices made throughout the day can affect your child’s dental health. Kids can have a harder time with cavity prevention because they tend to crave snacks and drinks that are high in sugar. Insisting on better diet choices, and providing milk and water with meals, can help keep them protected against possible cavities.
Our St. Louis, MO Dentist’s Office Has Helped Families Maintain Healthy Smiles!
At Magnolia Family Dental, Dr. Johnson has helped families in and around the St. Louis, MO area care for their smiles. As your child grows up, the oral health support and guidance provided to them from an early age can help them enjoy life with a healthy, lovely smile. To learn more about how we can help your family avoid dental troubles, please call our St. Louis, MO dentist’s office at 314-822-4521.
