Nearly every dentist would agree that your influence as a parent is just as important when it comes to keeping young patients’ teeth healthy and bright. Together with proactive dental care, consistent at-home instruction is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your child from cavities and other common, yet preventable conditions.
The following are just some areas where your guidance can make all the difference as your child and their smile develops:
Establishing Good Hygiene Habits Early
Helping your child take ownership of their smile at an early age is an essential way to foster a lifetime of ideal dental health. This means getting a toothbrush in their hands sooner rather than later.
Even before their primary teeth erupt, you can help your infant prepare for regular dental cleanings. Using a soft cloth or infant toothbrush to clean their gums at bath time introduces your baby to the concept in a safe, comfortable environment. Continue to be a part of your child’s routine as their smile emerges; simply seeing how you take care of your teeth helps them improve their hygiene habits.
Building a Positive Relationship with Dentistry
The ADA, AAPD, and dentists everywhere agree: your child’s introduction to the dentist should take place shortly after their first tooth erupts. This initial trip is meant to be a comfortable experience, even more than it is a chance to evaluate for potential problems. Ongoing research bears out the value of this approach, revealing that patients who started seeing a dentist when they were young are less likely to avoid their biannual check-ups and exhibit less severe oral health concerns as a whole.
Caring for a Growing Smile beyond Brushing
While learning to brush and floss regularly builds the foundation for your child’s oral health, it is just as important for them to be mindful of their habits. Providing education on a proper diet is a great place to start, especially given the prevalence of childhood cavities. Teaming up with your family dentist, you can explain to your child why they should enjoy sugary drinks and foods in moderation. You can also discuss nutritional alternatives that are both tasty and promote long-term dental function.
Promoting a healthy lifestyle also means making sure their teeth are protected as they play and compete. To reduce your child’s risk of experiencing sports-related dental trauma, speak with your dentist about custom mouthguards. These are designed to fit a young patient’s mouth comfortably while keeping their smile safe from injury.
Guide Your Child toward Lasting Oral Health – Schedule a Visit Today!
At Madison Center for Dentistry, we believe providing kids with a happy, healthy future is easier to do in a supportive environment. Dr. Zac Gilbertson and his team treat everyone who visits as members of our family, offering education for parents and young patients along with preventive treatment.
To discover more about our approach to dental care for children in Madison, Hanover, and communities across Jefferson County, give us a call today!