Teaching Good Dental Habits Did you know that, according to the CDC, over 50% of children aged six to eight have cavities in their baby teeth? Dr. Nadgie Ortiz stresses how with a rising number of children getting dental cavities, it has become critical for parent's to teach good dental habits from an early age to develop an understanding of oral hygiene in children.Four Good Dental Habits to Teach ChildrenHere are a few different ways you can teach children positive dental habits from an early age. Brushing Twice a DayHave you ever noticed how your child tries to mimic everything you do? Parents are like role models for young children. So why not take advantage of this? As you brush your teeth, you can make your children join you and turn this into a fun activity. When you do this, over time, your children will begin to develop a habit of brushing their teeth daily. Teach Them the Correct Method of BrushingIf you successfully build the habit of brushing in your children but fail to stress proper brushing techniques, then this habit may not be helpful for them. Therefore, while you teach your children to brush their teeth twice daily, repeat proper brushing techniques to ensure they clean their teeth properly. Here are a few steps you can teach your children to brush their teeth properly according to Dr. Ortiz:
By following this simple step-by-step brushing technique, you can teach your children how to brush their teeth properly. Instill the Habit of FlossingFlossing is an integral part of dental hygiene. Therefore, teaching your children the importance of flossing and how to floss correctly is critical. To begin, you must purchase flossing tools like string floss or a water flosser for your children. Some children do not like the feeling of string floss. This can cause them to despise flossing. To avoid this, you want to give them alternative options like water floss, which is not as invasive as string flossing. Add flossing into your daily brushing routine and guide your children wherever they may be struggling, and soon they will form the habit of flossing on their own. Encourage the Habit of Regular Dental CheckupsAnother good dental habit that all parents must teach their children is the importance of regular dental checkups. Doing so allows us to spot any dental issues early on and helps avoid them from worsening. Smile Kids! Pediatric Dentistry is here to support you in instilling these habits in your children. For details on dental checkups from our experts, you can call us at (276) 663-0065. |
 Phone(276) 663-0065 HoursMon: 9:30am - 4pm Tues: 9:30am - 4pm Wed: 9:30am - 4pm Thurs: 9:30am - 4pm Friday: 9:30am - 4pm Saturday: We are open one Saturday a month by appointment. We are closed for federal Holidays. |
