Establishing a dental hygiene routine for your child is an important duty as a parent. However, introducing new healthy habits and routines may not always prove as easy as we expect, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t creative ways to approach a childhood challenge.
And if you have questions about how to help your child establish healthy dental hygiene, we have plenty of answers and resources to get you started!
When Should I Start To Teach My Child Dental Hygiene?
Dental hygiene should always begin as soon as possible. First, be mindful to attend to their gums during their first few months with a gentle washcloth. Then, when your child’s teeth first begin to grow in (around four to seven months old), use a small, soft toothbrush brush, cool water, and a pea-size dollop of toothpaste to begin the process of gently cleaning their first baby teeth.
By starting as early as possible, not only are you helping to guarantee the long-term oral health of your child, but you’re ingraining dental habits into their memory that will set them up for success down the road. This is also why we suggest bringing your baby in for their first pediatric dental appointment before their first birthday.
How Can I Help My Child Continue To Develop Healthy Dental Habits?
As they grow older, it can be difficult to convince children to attend to their dental hygiene regularly, as they may not understand the full impact their dental health has on their overall well-being.
That being said, there are plenty of ways to help your child feel involved — and yes, even excited! — about the healthy process of dental hygiene. We recommend …
● Letting them pick out their own toothbrush and toothpaste.
● Using a colorful timer or their favorite song to measure two-minute brushing activities.
● Brushing and flossing together to make it a family activity.
● Reading books and/or watching videos with your child that encourage healthy dental hygiene.
● Surprising/rewarding your child with healthy treats or activities after their dental appointments.
How Do I Find The Right Dentist For My Child?
Finding the right dentist starts by finding a local practice with a proven history of trust. And here at Setzer, Cochran, and Soares Pediatric Dentistry we offer just that! Our team is here to help guide your child and your family toward a lifetime of dental hygiene and optimal oral health.
If you’re ready to bring your child to an award-winning team of board-certified pediatric dentists, or if you have further questions about how to handle dental hygiene at home, then it’s time to contact Setzer, Cochran, and Soares Pediatric Dentistry!
We offer a warm welcome and look forward to helping your child achieve a beautiful smile. Call us today at (904) 733-7254 to schedule your appointment!