How To Improve Your Child’s Teeth for National Children’s Dental Health Month
February 12, 2019
February is National Dental Health Month, and it’s the perfect time to take steps to improve your child’s oral health. In addition to visiting our family dentistry practice regularly, here are a few things you can do as a parent to encourage good oral hygiene practices while your child is young.
Teach the Basics
It’s important for children to learn the basics of good oral hygiene so they know how to take good care of their teeth as they grow older. Start by teaching your child to brush twice daily and floss once per day (or as needed to dislodge food from teeth). It’s wise to monitor your child carefully in the early years and make sure he or she is brushing and flossing properly. You may also want to take turns with the toothbrush and floss so your child can practice while still receiving a thorough cleaning with your help.
Encourage Healthy Eating
Most kids prefer sweet, sugary foods over healthy foods, but there are things you can do to encourage healthy eating. Here are a few suggestions for helping your kids enjoy nutritious foods that will strengthen their teeth:
- Keep sugary snacks out of sight and healthy snacks readily-available.
- Praise your child each time he or she chooses to eat something healthy.
- Offer choices, but make sure they’re all healthy. Your child will feel empowered when he or she gets to choose which healthy option to eat.
Some parents get very creative and even cut shapes into healthy foods to help them become more appealing to kids. It’s up to you to decide what methods to use when encouraging your child to eat healthy.
Visit the Dentist Regularly
If your child hasn’t been receiving regular checkups from your dentist in Raleigh, NC, now is a great time to start. Generally, twice-per-year visits are recommended for good oral health.
Schedule Your Appointment
Ready to improve your child’s teeth in honor of National Children’s Dental Health Month? Schedule your appointment with Dr. Paresh Naran by calling Naran Family Dentistry today.