“Back to school” is the perfect time for a fresh start! Along with new shoes and school supplies, comes new routines. Perhaps this should include healthy habits, especially for your child’s mouth. Establishing a good oral hygiene routine should begin at a young age and carry on into adulthood.
As a parent, your child’s oral health is your responsibility. The best thing you can do is lead by example, showing your child how you take care of your own mouth. Here are some tips to keeps kids’ mouths healthy and happy.
Entrusting the Professionals
Regarding the ceremonial first trip to the dentist, some people say, “first birthday or first tooth”, while others wait until the second birthday when there’s a little more going on in the mouth. Usually the first visit is just a “meet and greet” with the dentist and staff to get the child acclimated to a new environment and slowly introduce dental equipment. If your child’s oral health is good, he will probably get his first real cleaning around age three and then continue on a biannual schedule.
Feeding Your Child’s Mouth
There are tooth-friendly foods and foods that can wreak havoc on your child’s choppers. Fresh fruits and veggies are always a good option because they are loaded with nutrients and vitamins. The crunch packs the punch! Crunchy produce like apples, carrots, and broccoli also serve as “nature’s toothbrush” to cleanse the teeth of other debris. While packing your child’s snacks and lunches for school, opt for lean proteins (turkey, chicken, eggs), dairy (yogurt, cheese, milk), and stick to water instead of juice boxes.
Healthy Mouths Happen at Home
Parents, this is where your involvement is the most important. Establishing a good oral health routine at home sets the bar for success. This is where your child can learn from you! Make regular brushing and flossing a positive experience. Get the whole family brushing together or make up a silly song about brushing away the “sugar bugs” to avoid cavities. The more fun you make it, the more the kids will enjoy it. Letting your child pick out a toothbrush in her favorite color is also a good way to encourage brushing.
Protecting the Pearly Whites
Kids are accident-prone. From bumps and bruises to skinned knees, your little one is bound to get some boo-boos along the way. Sometimes these accidents can be a little more serious than a bruise or scrape, and they can involve trauma to the mouth like a chipped tooth or busted lip. It’s always best to consult a pediatric dentist when your child suffers any type of injury to the mouth. For kids who play sports, a custom mouthguard is the best way to protect their pearly whites.
We hope everyone is off to a good start as this new school begins. At Berger Dental, we are proud to offer pediatric dental services. If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s oral health, call us at 954-344-4488, or complete an online appointment request to schedule your consultation.