We all want the very best for our children, especially when it comes to their health. While some illnesses can’t be prevented, there is lots we can do to ensure they have the best chance possible for a long and healthy life.
One area in which we can encourage and promote good health is through dental care. Our dental health is extremely important, as complications with it can cause a lot of pain, infection, and damage to our overall health. This is why it is extremely important to raise kids with good oral care habits.
Getting the process down of taking care of teeth and gums at an early age is extremely beneficial to children, both presently and later in life. Here are some tips on how to raise kids with good oral care habits.
Emphasize the Importance of Baby Teeth
Just because they are going to fall out does not mean that this is a practice round. Not looking after baby teeth can not only mean that bad habits are carried onwards to their second set of teeth, it can also mean that gums get damaged. After all, we do not grow a new set of gums, so we need to take care of them from the beginning. And if baby teeth decay and must be removed prematurely, adjacent teeth can move in to fill the space before the permanent tooth is ready to come in, causing spacing issues.
Make It Fun
One trick for how to raise kids with good oral care habits is to make brushing teeth fun. This isn’t as hard as it sounds. There are novelty toothbrushes available featuring their favourite characters, and even music, as well as flavoured toothpaste which can be more pleasant for children, compared to stronger mint tasting ones that we are used to.
Introduce Them to Dentists at an Early Age
Bring them to visit us at Halo Dental when they are young. Our dentist in New Westminster are extremely friendly and knowledgeable when it comes to dealing with kids of all ages. By bringing them in for check-ups at an early age, they will learn to be comfortable at the dentist, and not develop a fear later in life. This will also help them form good oral care habits, as a check-up will just become part of their regular routine.
Don’t Give Up
Looking after kids isn’t easy, and forming good oral care habits takes time. At Halo Dental, we encourage parents and guardians not to give up. With some patience and perseverance, you can indeed raise kids with good oral care habits.
