Is your child brushing their teeth properly? Having good oral hygiene from an early age can keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy throughout their life. You might struggle to make your child brush your teeth. So, making the process a bit fun for them might help. Using effective strategies can help your child build an excellent care routine.
Read this blog to learn how you can make oral care a fun activity for your little one.
Why Early Oral Care Matters?
Your child’s baby teeth play a very important role in their overall health, speech development, and proper chewing. Moreover, baby teeth also act as placeholders for the growth of aligned permanent teeth.
Poor oral hygiene can cause cavities and gum disease. So, your little one might end up experiencing extreme pain, infections, and difficulty in eating their food. Establishing good habits at an early stage can protect them from these issues and support their long-term oral health.
If your child develops proper brushing and flossing habits, they will continue practicing them even as adults. A pediatric dentist in Sacramento can monitor your child’s mouth for signs of diseases if necessary.
How To Make Brushing Fun For Kids?
Looking for the right brush for your kid? Select a soft-bristled toothbrush. Fun-flavored toothpaste such as bubblegum or strawberry can make brushing more enjoyable for them. You can use timers, brushing apps, and reward charts to make brushing more engaging.
Try creating a playlist of fun songs or use brushing songs to maintain the two-minute brushing time. Your child will stay patient and entertained during this activity.
What Are Some Effective Brushing Techniques For Kids?
A child should brush their teeth twice a day. Here is an age-based brushing guide for your child:
- Toddlers aged between 1-3 should brush their teeth using gentle circular motions.
- If your child is a preschooler, teach them to hold their brush at a 45-degree angle while using short strokes.
- School-going kids aged 7 or above should be able to brush their teeth independently but still supervise their techniques.
Apart from brushing, you must also teach your child the importance of flossing. You can assist your younger child until they learn to floss independently. Try using fluoride tooth[astes to give your child an extra layer of protection.
What Are Some Healthy Eating Habits For Strong Teeth?
Your child’s diet plays an important role in the health of their gums and teeth. Here are some food items that can improve oral health.
- Calcium-rich food items such as milk, cheese, and yogurt can strengthen teeth enamel.
- Crunchy fruits and vegetables like carrots and apples can clean your child’s teeth naturally.
- Consumption of excess sugar can affect your child’s teeth and cause cavities. In fact, in the U.S., 50% of children experience cavities by age 9.
- Encourage your child to drink water in ample amounts, as it can wash away bacteria and increase saliva production.
Apart from diet and hygiene, certain habits, such as thumb-sucking and prolonged pacifier use, can affect your child’s teeth alignment.
Good oral hygiene always starts at home with consistent and fun routines. By making brushing an enjoyable activity and reinforcing healthy eating, you can protect your child’s lifelong dental health. Go through the tips given above to ease the process.
Are you ready to protect your child’s smile? Contact us today for consultation.
