There are several ways to help maintain healthy teeth in children and prevent cavities. The first step is to start a good oral habit routine early and teach kids the importance of brushing twice daily and flossing. The next step is to teach your child the importance of eating healthy as a way to prevent cavities as well.
Taking proper care of your child’s gums
Taking proper care of your child’s gums is just as crucial as maintaining the health of their teeth. In addition, your child’s gums need attention because not taking proper care of them may lead to issues like gingivitis.
Gingivitis in kids
Gingivitis is a moderate level of gum disease that causes inflammation, redness, and irritation of the gums. Unfortunately, gingivitis is common in children of all ages. In addition, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis or tooth loss if left untreated.
Make brushing fun for kids
The first step is to let your child choose their own toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss. Next, parents can make the routine exciting by buying toothpaste and brushes that are bright and colorful. The final step is to let your child set a timer for 2 minutes and make it a game to see how well your child can brush during that time limit.
Make flossing fun for kids
Flossing is key to maintaining healthy gums in kids, and as soon as two teeth are touching, you can begin to floss your child’s teeth. Parents will have to floss their infant’s teeth until about 3 or 4. After that, parents can introduce a mirroring game, where their child has to mirror all their movements and vice versa as they brush or floss.
Teach kids about tooth-friendly foods
Maintaining healthy teeth in children includes eating a tooth-friendly diet. Fruit, vegetables, cheese, lean meat, and nuts are considered tooth-friendly foods. On the other hand, cookies, candy, and chips are not the best foods for optimum gum health. When they do eat these types of foods it’s important to teach them how to maintain healthy teeth in children. Here is a list of tooth-friendly snacks.
Twice a year dental check-ups
Once your child is brushing, flossing, and eating well, they are on their way to having a healthy mouth. First, however, it is essential to remember to have a pediatric dental cleaning twice yearly. Dental cleanings are the best way to eliminate plaque build-up and allow your pediatric dentist to spot any possible areas of concern.