How Do I Help My Children Develop Good Dental Habits?

As a parent, you’re responsible for teaching your child many things. Among the most important life skills kids need to learn is how to take care of their teeth.

Here are some tips for teaching your kids good dental habits:

Start Teaching Them Young

You can begin teaching your child how to take care of their teeth from the day they are born. Before they have any teeth, dental care is gently wiping their gums with a damp washcloth to remove harmful bacteria. Once they have their first tooth, brush it daily with an infant toothbrush and a rice-grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Once they have two teeth that touch, begin flossing between them daily.

Teach Them by Example

Your kids learn from watching you, so if they see you brushing and flossing your teeth, they will want to follow you. Let your child watch you brush your teeth and floss. Explain what you are doing and why, and then let them try it. Your child will probably need assistance and supervision with brushing and flossing until they are around 8 years old.

Make It a Fun Routine

Dental care is usually boring to kids, but many kids thrive with established routines, so try to make it a fun routine. Get them a toothbrush with their favorite cartoon character on it, or one that plays music when they brush.

Go to the Dentist as a Family

Kids can get anxious at dentist appointments; it’s an unfamiliar environment with strange sounds and new people. Make it less stressful for them by going as a family. Your child can watch you have your cleaning and checkup, and they will see that it’s nothing to fear.

For more tips on how to teach your kids good dental habits, call or visit us at Midland Dental & Oasis Kids and Orthodontics!