February is National Children’s Dental Health Month.  It is the perfect time to make sure your children are familiar with good oral care habits and practice healthy habits regularly.  Even the youngest children can start to prevent periodontal disease. 

Oral Care Products For Your Kids

Kids need different oral care products than adults.  Adult-sized toothbrushes are not as appropriate for small children.  You may also be using a toothpaste that tastes too strong, or is made for specific adult needs.  Choose products that are designed for children.  

Oral Care Can Be Fun

Children respond best to positive approaches and positive reinforcement.  Instead of nagging your child to brush and floss, it can be a fun experience.  From playing games to placing stickers on a special calendar, your kids can associate oral care with good times.

You can also set a good example for your kids.  When they know you brush and floss regularly, they will want to do it, too.  If you wish, you can include them in your own oral care routines.  Children enjoy brushing and flossing even more when they can do it with Mom or Dad.  It can be a fun, healthy activity for your family.   

Proper Brushing And Flossing

Similar to adults, your children should brush and floss at least twice each day.  One approach to help your children learn this habit is to schedule brushing and flossing after breakfast and before bedtime.

Your kids can practice oral care when they are away from home, too.  Each child can have an extra set of supplies to carry along to school and when visiting friends or relatives overnight.

Oral Health And Diet  

Your child’s diet can affect his oral health.  The younger he is when introduced to healthy products, the more likely he will be to avoid periodontal disease and tooth decay.  

Your youngster can learn milk is better and healthier than carbonated soft drinks.  A fresh piece of fruit or crunchy vegetable sticks can be eaten instead of sugary treats.  Avoid using sweets as rewards.  When you present healthy foods and beverages in a positive way, he will learn healthy products do taste good.  

Visit the Dentist

Preventing periodontal disease does not end with your child’s personal oral care routines.  He needs to visit the dentist regularly.  If he is not experiencing any dental problems, schedule appointments at least once every six months.

He will be examined for any signs of tooth decay and gum disease.  Professional cleaning will remove any plaque and tartar that has built up on his teeth.  His gums will be carefully cleaned, so there is no residue or bacteria that can lead to gum disease.  

When you focus on oral care during National Children’s Dental Health Month, your children can benefit for the rest of their lives. They will learn good habits that they will continue as they grow older, and may never develop periodontal disease.  Your kids can learn to make oral care a part of their daily lives, and look forward to seeing the dentist twice a year.

Contact our office for more children’s oral care tips and to schedule an appointment.