Posted by Dr. Bill Williams on April 25, 2016 · Leave a Comment
The weather is getting warmer and that can only mean one thing – summer is coming! Kids love to indulge in ice cream, popsicles, candy and other delicious sweets, but this calls for a serious look at our children’s oral health. Here are a few tips for parents and caregivers to help you keep your children’s oral health in check not only during the summer months ahead but throughout the year.
Encourage them to eat nutritiously: When your child reaches for a sugary snack or soda, suggest healthy foods such as carrot sticks, yogurt, peanut butter or string cheese instead. Yes, tasty, sugary sweets are acceptable in moderation (it’s all a part of being a kid!), but it’s also important to educate our children on what foods will help them develop strong, cavity-free teeth.
Establish routine oral hygiene habits at a young age: As a rule of thumb, kids should brush their teeth at least twice daily. Children as young as two or three can begin using toothpaste when brushing, as long as they are supervised. A pea-sized amount for toddlers is just enough. When they can tie their shoes on their own, then they are ready to brush their teeth without adult supervision.
Visit the dentist twice a year: It’s important for kids to begin seeing the dentist regularly by the time their first tooth appears. These initial visits will allow your child to get acquainted with the dentist and help them get comfortable about going every six months.
Protect your child’s teeth with fluoride: If your child is less than seven years old, they should use fluoride toothpaste. If you live in an area where fluoride is not added to the water, talk to your dentist about the best way to protect your child’s teeth.
Mind these simple tips to ensure your child is on their way to achieving a smile that will last a lifetime!
