Give Children a Good Start
Having a healthy mouth isn’t complicated, but training children to have healthy dental habits can be challenging. The importance of oral health for youngsters is emphasized by California law, which requires a dental check-up before they enter school for kindergarten. Since tooth decay is the most common chronic disease in children, early education about mouth care is crucial for maintaining a healthy mouth at a young age and into adulthood. How can parents help their children establish positive lifetime dental habits? Our Placerville dentists have some tips!
Attack Plaque!
To be successful at training your children in oral health care, start with these three things:
- Select the right toothbrush. It should have soft bristles and be small enough for the child to reach all parts of their mouth.
- Be involved in your child’s daily oral care. Don’t just hand them a brush and hope for the best!
- Bring your child to the dentist twice a year. The dentists at the Placerville Dental Group know that new experiences and fear of the unknown may cause your little one some anxiety, so we do all we can to make it enjoyable and comfortable for them.
Until your child demonstrates the ability to brush on their own, use a small dab of fluoride toothpaste in a favorite flavor. Help your child use soft, circular strokes along the gumline and on each tooth, twice a day for two minutes each time (Two times Two). Train your child to spit out the toothpaste, instead of swallowing it. It takes practice for a little one to do that regularly, but swallowing toothpaste won’t harm them.
Healthy Eating for Strong Teeth
Encourage healthy eating habits that includes plenty of veggies, fruits and whole grains. Instead of giving children juice or sodas to quench their thirst, encourage them to drink water. Staying well hydrated, especially with fluoridated water, and eating a balanced diet helps form strong teeth and bones. If you are concerned that your child is not getting enough fluoride, feel free to talk with your dentist at the Placerville Dental Group. Treatments are available to guarantee your child receives the proper amount. We are also happy to answer any questions you have to help you and your family enjoy happy and healthy smiles for life! Call us at (530) 444-5322, visit at 699 Main Street, Suite B, or contact us through our website to make an appointment or consult with our doctors.
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