We often speak to parents with many questions about children’s dental health. For example, many are unsure whether toddlers need their teeth brushed as often as adults do, or if children really need dental cleanings below a certain age. Let’s not forget questions about diet and what foods to avoid. Today, we’re going to address some of these questions by looking at five steps for keeping little smiles healthy.
Keeping Little Smiles Healthy
- Water Instead of Soda/Fruit Juice: You probably know that soda is harmful to the teeth, but did you know that sports drinks contain a highly acidic content, which can lead to cavities? In addition, many fruit juices also contain a high amount of sugar. Encouraging your children to drink water can help protect their teeth from cavities, while also keeping them hydrated and healthy.
- Offer Healthier Snack Options: Snacks don’t have to always include chips or sugary foods. Instead, you could offer fresh fruit, vegetables such as baby carrots or broccoli, and nuts. Dairy products, such as low-fat yogurt, also make a smile healthy snack option.
- Brush Correctly: As soon as the first teeth arrive, your child should have his/her teeth brushed twice a day. As they grow older, make sure they are brushing for at least two minutes, in the morning and again before going to bed.
- Don’t Forget to Floss: Children, like adults, need to floss to remove food particles a toothbrush’s bristles can’t reach. Kids should floss on either side of every tooth each night before going to bed. For some kids, using a floss pick may be easier.
- Don’t Forget Six Month Visits: Every six months your little should see the dentist for a checkup and a dental cleaning. These visits allow the doctor to identify potential problems and address them in a timely manner, as well as remove plaque buildup from the teeth.
