It can be difficult to get your child enthusiastic about taking care of their pearly whites if they don’t understand why it’s necessary. Their pediatric dentist in Irving is a great resource for your child to learn good oral hygiene habits. Because October is National Dental Hygiene month, there’s no better time of the year to start teaching your little one how to keep their smile healthy. Read on to learn five ways to get your child excited about visiting their dentist and how to keep their mouths cavity-free.
Getting Them in the Habit of Brushing Twice a Day
The most essential part of your little one’s oral hygiene routine is brushing their teeth twice a day. It’s even more important to make sure they’re doing this properly. While they’re still learning, encourage them to brush alongside you every morning and evening, and set a two-minute timer. Show them how to use small, gentle, circular motions while removing plaque from the surface of each of their teeth. Remember to communicate how important it is for them to brush their tongue as well, to keep their breath smelling fresh and clean.
Replacing Their Toothbrush Regularly
Some adults don’t even know that it’s important to replace toothbrushes every three months. This will help avoid bacteria buildup and transfer to your child’s mouth, which increases their chances of developing oral infections. Another way you can tell when to replace their brush is when the bristles appear frayed.
Getting Regular Checkups and Cleanings
Teeth cleanings and dental checkups for kids in Irving are an essential part of getting your little one comfortable visiting the dentist. Regular preventive care is an important way to ensure that your child doesn’t develop severe oral health problems. It’s also an important educational tool that teaches them why they should take care of their smile, encouraging the development of healthy habits.
Encouraging a Nutritious Diet
Certain foods and beverages can benefit your child’s oral health, especially ones that are high in vitamin D, vitamin B complex, copper, zinc, iodine, iron, and potassium. These are nutrients that encourage healthy enamel development and protect their small smiles from oral health problems. Introduce foods like leafy greens, fibrous vegetables, and white dairy products in their diet.
Keeping Them Hydrated With Water
A great way to keep sugar and harmful oral bacteria from settling in their mouth and causing cavities is to keep them hydrated with water instead of drinks that contain flavorings. With a reusable water bottle on hand, whenever they get thirsty at school or daycare, they’ll have a healthy beverage choice.
There’s no guide that teaches parents how to encourage their child to form good oral habits as they get older. However, you do have a very knowledgeable pediatric dentist at your fingertips that can help you along every step of the way. Each time your take your little one for a teeth cleaning for children in Irving, you’ll be able to ask any questions you may have, so you feel confident that you’re doing everything you can at home to keep their small developing smile as healthy as possible.
About the Practice
At Rio Dental & Orthodontics, we have a first-class team of professionals, including several experienced general dentists, three board-certified pediatric dentists, and three board-certified orthodontists. No matter what services your child needs, we are fully equipped to provide high-quality dental care that preserves their beautiful smiles. We value the time of our patients and parents, which is why we offer the convenience of three locations in Farmers Branch, Irving, and Fort Worth, accept walk-ins, and are even open late and on Saturdays. For questions or to schedule a routine checkup and cleaning for your child at our Irving location, visit our website or call 972-793-0735.
