The American Dental Association started Children’s Dental Health Day all the way back on February 8th, 1949, and it was so successful that it blossomed into Children’s Dental Health Month. It serves as a time to highlight the importance of looking after growing smiles and share the best ways to do so. These 3 easy tips are in the spirit of the occasion and perfect for busy parents who just want to make sure the youngest members of their family always have bright, healthy teeth they are proud to show the world.
Check In on Your Child’s Brushing
It was probably a day of celebration when you realized that your child was old enough to start brushing their teeth. Just one less thing for you to worry about, right? While you don’t need to check in on them every morning and night, you should peek in to see how they are taking care of their teeth when you aren’t around. Are they brushing for the whole two minutes? Are they cleaning every single tooth? Are they flossing in the evening?
A simple way to do this without just staring at your child is to brush alongside them. You’ll be able to observe them while setting a good example, plus young kids will really like the extra attention as well.
Time for a New Toothbrush?
Ideally, a toothbrush should be replaced every three to four months (when the bristles start to flare out and look worn) OR right after someone has been sick. If it’s time for your child’s current brush to go, you can turn this opportunity into a fun family moment by letting them choose their next one. There are countless brushes available today, so your child is bound to find one that is their favorite color or features a beloved character. As long as the brush has the ADA seal of approval, then it’s a good choice!
Perfectly Timed Dental Appointment
Bringing your child to their dentist for a checkup and cleaning allows professionals to remove cavity-causing plaque and bacteria they can’t at home, plus an exam can help reveal the early signs of minor problems before they turn into a major issue. The great thing about February is that if your child sees their dentist now, their next appointment will need to be scheduled right around the time school starts. Taking this approach means you won’t have to work around their school schedule in the future, plus you can make sure they start the year without any lingering dental issues that could hamper them in the classroom.
There is a lot to keep up with as a parent, but by taking advantage of these tips and seeing your child’s dentist, you can ensure they stay healthy and always feel ready to show off their pearly whites.
About the Author
Dr. Michael Kirk has been looking after Oklahoma City smiles for more than three decades as a trusted family, cosmetic, and implant dentist. That means that many of his child patients now bring their own children to come see him, and he loves putting little smiles on a path of health and confidence. You can schedule your child’s next appointment by contacting Grand Dental Studio today.