In light of the ever-growing list of responsibilities you have as a parent, helping your child develop strong, healthy teeth may seem like an enormous weight on your shoulders. The good news is that most of the steps towards a child’s healthy smile can be achieved by integrating simple yet intentional steps into your daily routine. Continue reading to learn more.
3 Steps to a Healthy Smile
1. Alter Your Child’s Diet
Many of the dental issues seen in children, such as cavities and tooth decay, can be slowed by minimizing the amount of sugary and acidic foods your child eats. Cavities and decay come from bacteria which are found naturally in the mouth. This bacteria feeds on the sugars left on the teeth and gums and leaves plaque behind which will lead to tooth decay. Likewise, acidic foods can erode the enamel which is the protective and hard layer of the teeth leaving them more exposed to potential cavities.
While altering your child’s diet will not remove the need for daily hygiene practices, it may help to maintain the health of your child’s teeth between brushing.
2. Brush, Floss, and Swish
The best way to ensure your child develops healthy teeth is to establish healthy hygiene practices early on. If your child is still a baby and does not yet have teeth, use a damp cloth to wipe the gums at least twice a day. Once your child’s first tooth comes in, practice brushing at least once a day. As your child ages and more teeth erupt, follow age-appropriate recommendations, which will eventually include daily brushing, flossing, and the use of a fluoride rinse. Make these steps a habit now so that your child will maintain these steps as an adolescent and adult.
3. Find a Pediatric Dentist
One of the most valuable steps towards helping your child develop strong, healthy teeth is to find a pediatric dentist to partner with your efforts. Regular checkups and cleanings will help establish oral hygiene as a priority in your family. The dentist will reinforce what you are teaching at home and will help correct most dental issues early on to avoid costly dental procedures down the road.
This step also gives your child a sense of ownership and accountability when it comes to taking care of their own teeth. As they grow, they will understand the value of these regular appointments and will become more comfortable going to the dentist.
Find a Pediatric Dentist in Greenville, NC
We are now accepting new patients at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry. Contact our office to schedule your child’s first appointment and take the first step towards improving the health of your child’s teeth today.
