Dental decay is the most common chronic childhood disease even though it is preventable when good oral health habits are practiced. Children need help brushing and flossing from a grown-up until they are 8-years-old. Follow the following four rules for a healthy smile.
|
1. Brush your teeth two times a day with fluoride toothpaste for two minutes each time.
 |
2. Floss your teeth at least once a day
 |
|
|
3. Drink water throughout the day and make healthy food choices.
 |
4. Visit the dentist two times a year for a check-up and cleaning.
 |
Baby teeth are important It is a common misconception that baby teeth are not important. This is a myth. Baby teeth are very important and they must be taken care of well.
Baby teeth help your child chew, talk, and speak. They also hold the space for the adult teeth underneath them in the gums.
When a child loses a tooth too early it can be difficult for them to eat certain healthy crunchy foods for long periods of time. Losing baby teeth too early can also lose the spot for the adult tooth coming in and possibly cause crooked or crowded teeth.
First tooth, First Visit
It's important to take your child to the dentist when they get their first tooth but no later than their 1st birthday. Doing this establishes a relationship between your child and a dentist early on but more importantly it helps you learn how to help care for your child's teeth.
Make good oral health habits a routine!
Children love having routines. The American Academy of Pediatrics's Brush, Book, Bed program is designed to help you create a healthy night time routine.
1. Help your child brush their teeth each night until they are eight.
2. Pick a book (or two) to read with your child
3. Go to bed at a regular time every night.
Brush
Book
Bed
Book
Bed
