Dental hygiene for kids is an important part of overall health and wellness. Strong and healthy teeth in childhood usually mean lesser teeth-related problems as an adult. According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, tooth decay is one of the most common childhood ailments. Parents can play an active role in encouraging kids to develop good oral health habits and learn the basics of dental hygiene. Here are some simple dental health tips for parents of toddlers and preschoolers.
Start Early for Good Oral Health
The foundation of strong teeth is laid early on, even before baby is born. An expectant mom must, therefore, eat plenty of calcium-rich foods besides taking the prescribed supplements to ensure that her baby’s teeth development take place properly. Calcium-rich foods, include fortified cereals, soy and dairy, and leafy, green vegetables.
Choose a Good Kids’ Dentist
The next most important step for good oral health for kids is to find a pediatric or kids’ dentist before your baby turns one. A dentist for kids is qualified to identify pediatric dental problems as well as guide parents about the appropriate dental care for young, baby teeth. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) advises a dental checkup before baby turns one so that a dentist can check for any signs of tooth decay and provide parents with information on fluoride needs as well as on oral development.
Teach Toddlers Basics of Dental Hygiene
Teaching a toddler to brush his or her own teeth is of prime importance. Start when your toddler is able to hold a brush independently and before that, gently brush or clean baby’s mouth and gums with a soft baby toothbrush and plain water.
However, most preschoolers are resistant to brushing and may not even let a parent touch their teeth with a toothbrush. In that case, the AAPD advises parents to be “cheerfully persistent” and use modeling, positive reinforcement and the process of “Tell/Show/Do” to encourage a resistant child to brush.
More Tips on Dental Hygiene for Kids
Here are some more oral health tips for children to keep their teeth and smiles healthy and strong.
- According to the AAPD, parents should avoid giving juices and sugary drinks in sippy cups and instead, only give water. This prevents kids from sipping on sugared drinks for long periods of time.
- Encourage toddlers and preschoolers to eat healthy foods and snacks by making meal times fun and enjoyable. A healthy diet leads to healthy teeth.
- Baby teeth must be brushed twice daily with a toothbrush and paste appropriate for a child’s age.
- The AAPD recommends fluoride supplements of children aged 6 months and older, especially if they’re drinking only bottled water.
While baby teeth may not seem a big deal, taking proper care of them can go a long way in preventing dental problems as a grown-up. So, parents and caregivers must ensure that toddlers and preschoolers brush right, eat healthy and get a preventive dental checkup before their first birthday. These simple tips will help to keep caries and toothache away and ensure happy, healthy smiles.
Prerna Malik - Prerna Malik is a professional freelance writer, business blogger, social media expert and obsessive organizer.
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