Oral Health Habits in Hallandale Beach
Why Are Good Oral Habits Important For Kids?
The oral habits your child establishes when they're young will stick with them for the rest of their lives. Great at-home oral hygiene helps prevent common issues like gum disease and cavities and sets them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Because of this, it’s really important to make sure your child brushes and flosses regularly, and comes into our office every six months for a check-up.
The Benefits of Good Oral Habits
Building good oral health habits starts with parents. Here are just a few reasons you need to encourage your child to take better care of their teeth and gums.
Prevent Common Oral Health Issues
Tooth decay is the #1 most common preventable oral health condition in kids and in dental patients of all ages. The good news is that with a healthy diet, good oral habits, and routine visits to the dentist, cavities are completely avoidable.
Save Time & Money
If your child takes good care of those pearly whites, they're less likely to have problems like cavities or infected teeth. That means you won’t have to pay for procedures like fillings and crowns, and your little one won’t have to make as many visits to the dentist as they grow up.
Set Your Child Up for Success
What you learn as a child sticks with you. So if you encourage your children to brush regularly, floss daily, and see the dentist every six months, they’ll continue these habits into adulthood. That sets them up for a lifetime of healthy, happy smiles!
3 Steps Towards Awesome Oral Health
Have questions about Oral Health Habits? Find answers here!
When should my child stop using a bottle?
You should start weaning your baby off bottles and pacifiers between the ages of 12-24 months. We encourage transitioning to an open cup once they turn two years old.
how can i make brushing teeth fun and engaging for my child?
Making brushing teeth a fun and engaging activity for kids is essential to encourage good oral hygiene habits. Here are some creative ideas to make toothbrushing enjoyable:
- Choose a Colorful Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Let your child pick out a toothbrush and toothpaste with their favorite color or character. Having a toothbrush that appeals to them can make brushing more exciting.
- Sing a Toothbrushing Song: Create a short and catchy song that your child can sing while brushing. You can make up your own lyrics or find toothbrushing songs online.
- Use a Timer: Use a fun timer (such as an hourglass or a toothbrushing app with games) to make sure your child brushes for the recommended two minutes. This can turn brushing into a game against the timer.
- Brush Together: Make toothbrushing a family activity by brushing your teeth alongside your child. They will enjoy mimicking your actions and spending quality time together.
- Storytelling Time: Tell a short story or create a toothbrushing adventure. For example, your child's toothbrush can become a superhero on a mission to fight off "sugar bugs."
When should I schedule my child’s first dentist appointment?
The ADA recommends bringing your child in for their first visit by the time their first tooth erupts, or by their first birthday — whichever comes first! At these early visits, we can ensure their teeth and jaw are developing properly, and address any minor issues before they become big ones. Plus, by starting their dental visits early, they are more likely to develop a positive relationship with their oral health.
