Being a Mum is a big job. Ensuring your children are happy and healthy is a full-time assignment, and that includes their oral health.
It is essential to teach children good dental hygiene habits at an early age to avoid nasty toothaches or tooth decay later on in life. To prevent bad dental problems such as toothaches, gingivitis, and tooth decay, your child should begin brushing and flossing correctly as soon as possible. Regular dentist checkups from 12 months of age is recommended, and your dentist Sidcup or anywhere else in the UK will be able to give you proffesional and knowledgeable advice about caring for your children’s teeth.
By instilling a healthy routine early in life, you can prevent major dental procedures and the cost of invisible braces or other corrective procedures when they are older. Here are some ways you can encourage your child to have a solid dental hygiene routine, from birth until their teenage years.
It All Starts With Treating Teething Symptoms When They Are A Baby
Starting with the first tooth that emerges, your baby’s teeth need to be protected from decay. Any of the front teeth of their mouth are susceptible to problems, but the upper front row is the most common cause of dental problems. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to help prevent tooth decay and to make oral care a more enjoyable activity.
Your baby’s gums should be wiped after each feeding with a clean gauze pad or washcloth. Then, brush teeth daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush once they have appeared. Water is sufficient for a teething baby, as toothpaste can irritate the delicate gum tissue. Many moms recommend letting your baby hold the toothbrush and chew on it so that he gets used to it.
You should book your child in for their first dental appointment when they turn one as well, starting a routine to monitor their oral health and ensure their development is tracking the way it should.
Developing Good Habits Start When They Are A Toddler
Your children will never be too young for good oral hygiene. As children, we learn behaviours that last a lifetime.
From the time they’re a baby, you should be nurturing their oral health, so when they turn three years of age or so, they’re well-versed in how to take care of their teeth. Most children will need your help brushing and flossing their teeth until they are about seven or eight years old. Even then, it’s wise to supervise them when they do it.
The best diet for your children is packed with fresh foods like vegetables, cheeses, and lean meats. In addition, their tap water should be fluoridated, and they shouldn’t eat excessive amounts of sugary foods.
Lead By Example
The most important thing you should do when brushing or flossing is to let your kids watch you. Make sure that you brush along with them and allow them to brush your teeth. You can teach them good habits by setting an example of good dental hygiene.
Make Dental Visits An Essential Routine
When your child gets their first tooth, you should start taking them to the dentist. You can help your child have a positive connection with the dentist if you start them young so they won’t be afraid when it is time for their next appointment.
When you visit the dentist, try to appear enthusiastic and avoid making it seem like you are anxious. Having routine dental checks will make your child more comfortable. In your child’s later years, the dentist will check for tooth damage or malpositions. In addition to saving time and money, prevention is a great way to avoid invasive dental procedures.
Appeal To Your Teenager’s Sense Of Vanity
One way to encourage teens to maintain good oral hygiene habits is to appeal to their image. When teens are gently reminded that lacking dental care can trigger yellow stains and bad breath, they may realise how vital it is to brush more often. Whitening toothpaste and mouthwashes can contribute to a regular hygiene habit and improve confidence for your teen self-conscious about their smile.
Teenagers may have difficulty finding time for ordinary skills like dental care, but neglecting oral hygiene can have serious consequences. Your teen may be more likely to brush regularly if you make oral hygiene simple, quick, and personal.
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