As a parent, you want what’s best for your children, including their dental health! You may be wondering how best to take care of your child’s teeth and what you can do to prevent cavities. Here are some tips from our experts.
1. Schedule Regular Dental Check-Ups
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months after the first tooth appears. After that, they should have dental check-ups every six months. These regular check-ups allow us to keep an eye on your child’s oral development and spot any potential problems early on. Additionally, we can guide you on how to best care for your child’s teeth at home. Remember that children under two years old qualify for free dental exams.
2. Teach Them Good Brushing Habits
It’s important to teach your children good brushing habits early on so that they will continue these habits into adulthood. Show them how to brush their teeth correctly and make sure they are doing a thorough job. A good way to ensure they are brushing long enough is to time them while they brush – two minutes is the recommended brushing time! You should also brush your teeth alongside your children so that they can see the proper technique in action. Some parents find it helpful to sing a song while they brush to help their child know when the two minutes are up.
3. Limit Sugary Drinks and Snacks
We know that sugary drinks and snacks are not good for our teeth, but it’s especially important to limit these items for young children. Their teeth are more susceptible to decay because they are still developing. When possible, offer water instead of juice and milk. And if your child must have sugary snacks or drinks, make sure they brush their teeth afterward.
4. Pacifiers and Thumb Sucking
If your child is still sucking their thumb or using a pacifier, now is the time to break that habit! Sucking on a pacifier or thumb can cause misalignment of the teeth. If you need help getting your child to stop, please let us know. We would be happy to provide some guidance.
5. Use Fluoride
Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent cavities and is found in many water sources. You can also find fluoride toothpaste and mouthwashes. At your next check-up, ask your dentist if they recommend using fluoride products for your child.
6. Sealants
Dental sealants are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. They act as a barrier, protecting the teeth from plaque and food particles. Sealants are most effective when applied to teeth that have not yet erupted (primary teeth) or shortly after they come in (permanent teeth). Your dentist can determine if sealants are right for your child.
Healthy Teeth, Healthy Kids!
Developing good dental hygiene habits early on is crucial for lifelong oral health. Following these tips can help your child develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime! If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact our office, and we would be happy to help you in any way we can!
Our experienced and caring dentists at Denver Youth Dental and Vision are here to help you ensure your child has a healthy smile. Schedule an appointment today! We have offices in Denver, Thornton, Aurora, and Hampden, and Spanish-speaking staff and translators in all our locations. We accept many insurance plans, including Medicaid and Denver Health. If you’re looking for the best kids’ dentist in Denver, call (303) 953-8801 or complete the online booking form to schedule an appointment.
