Taking care of your kids’ health is important, but their oral health may often be overlooked. February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, an effort to raise awareness on the importance of good dental care for kids. Did you know that each year, around 51 million hours of school are missed for dental-related issues? Keep reading to see what you can do to keep your child’s mouth healthy, prevent disease, and set them up for a successful future.
A Proper At-Home Routine
When it comes to preventing cavities, decay, gum disease, and other infections, it all starts with a good at-home oral healthcare routine. You should watch your children brush and floss, especially if they’re younger than 10, to ensure that they’re brushing for a full 2 minutes each session. They should also be flossing daily to remove plaque and food debris from in between their teeth.
Regular Visits to the Dentist
Routine checkups and cleanings not only keep their teeth and gums healthy, but it sets your kids up for oral health success in the future. The more positive experiences they have with your family dentist early on in their lives, the more likely they are to go on their own as they grow older! Additionally, these visits are vital to detecting any dental issues while they are small, which prevents more serious problems from developing. These visits not only save your little one’s smile, but they save you time and money as well.
Mouth-Healthy Foods
Your son or daughter’s diet is an important part of their oral health in addition to their overall wellbeing. It has been proven that the more sugar anyone of any age intakes, the more likely they are to develop cavities and decay. Children especially are more susceptible to cavities because of their diet. That’s why it’s up to you to give them mouth-healthy foods to keep their teeth and gums in tip-top shape.
Switch out sugary foods for leafy greens and low-fat dairy. These contain fiber and calcium that keep your kid’s teeth strong while washing away bacteria in their mouth. Also, while onions do cause some smelly breath, they contain antimicrobial properties that fight against bacteria that causes gum disease.
Drink Water
Water, a drink that is already healthy for your son or daughter’s body, is a great beverage for their teeth. Most tap water contains fluoride, which is a natural cavity-fighting mineral. It also helps to wash away plaque and food debris in your little one’s mouth.
Don’t let these tips die out when Children’s Dental Health Month is over. Practice these positive habits with your kids to keep them healthy throughout the year and for the future.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Ted Dunson II is an experienced dentist who provides a wide-range of services to patients of all ages. He enjoys making your little ones feel comfortable and confident to smile. He currently practices at Southridge Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, and he can be reached through his website or by phone at (940) 566-4942 for any questions.