No matter what the oral health habits in your home may be, your children are looking to you for an example. This goes for everything, not just oral hygiene! Kids are perceptive, and from an early age, they understand that the concept of ‘do as I say, not as I do’ is flawed and nonsensical. Fortunately, there are ways for you to model good dental hygiene so that your kids can grow into adults who have healthy teeth.
Set a Good Oral Health Example
Below are a few great ways for parents and caregivers to show children the importance of valuing dental health:
- Brush and Floss Daily – Remember to brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss every day. It can also be smart to make oral hygiene a family affair. Gather everyone in the bathroom after breakfast and before bed to brush and floss together.
- Discuss Your Mistakes – Don’t feel like you need to present an image of dental perfection to your kids. Discuss dental cavities or diseases that you’ve had in the past and discuss how you could have avoided these problems. These cautionary tales can provide your kids with the motivation they need to keep their teeth clean and healthy.
- Take Them to their Dentist – You should take your children to the dentist by their first birthday or the emergence of their first tooth, whichever comes first. This helps establish a dental home and decreases dental anxiety in the future.
- Visit the Dentist Yourself – Lastly, if you have a dentist who is ok with it, we recommend taking your children to watch your regular cleanings and exams. This can help take away the fear of the unknown and helps them feel more comfortable in the dentist’s office.
Effective oral hygiene habits begin in childhood. If you’re able to set a solid foundation for your kids now, you’ll have a better chance of providing them a cavity-free childhood!
Straight teeth are easier to keep clean. To make an appointment for your child to receive an orthodontic evaluation, please contact Garlock Orthodontics today. Looking for an orthodontist? Our orthodontic office is located here in Aurora, Colorado