Beneficial Dental Habits for Your Family

Below, we share tips to help families establish lifelong dental habits that will allow your children to enjoy positive oral health!

1. Visit the Dentist Early & Regularly

The American Dental Association (ADA) and our team recommend that a child’s first dental visit should occur by their first birthday or within six months of the eruption of their first tooth. Then, come visit us every six months afterwards. We’ll let you know if your child needs more frequent cleanings and checkups. These early, regular visits allow our team to monitor your child’s oral development, address any concerns, and provide guidance on proper oral care at home.

2. Teach Proper Brushing & Flossing

As soon as your child gets their first teeth, start daily brushing with a soft-bristled children’s toothbrush and a smear of fluoridated toothpaste the size of a grain of rice. After their third birthday, you can brush their teeth with a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Your child may be ready to brush their own teeth around age 5-7. Teach them to brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes each, making sure to clean all surfaces. They should also brush their tongue and floss every day.

3. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Your child’s diet will significantly impact their dental health. Try to limit sugary snacks and drinks, which contribute to tooth decay. Barring any allergies or sensitivities, provide them a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy products, and lean protein. Additionally, encourage them to drink plenty of water.

4. Use Fluoride

Fluoride is a mineral that fortifies tooth enamel to help prevent tooth decay. Your child can get a sufficient amount of fluoride through using fluoridated toothpaste, drinking tap water, and getting fluoride treatments at our office. Excessive fluoride exposure can lead to dental fluorosis, a cosmetic issue that causes white streaks in tooth enamel. Please consult with our team if you’re worried about your child’s fluoride exposure.

5. Lead by Example

Children learn by example so be a positive role model when it comes to oral health. Try brushing and flossing your teeth in front of your child. Cook and eat meals together. Show them that maintaining good dental habits are an essential and normal part of your daily life.

We Want to Help Care for Your Child’s Smile!

At Safari Children’s Dentistry & Braces, we tailor our care and treatment plans to a child’s individual needs. Contact our pediatric dental office for additional help cultivating good dental habits in your family.