A Practical Guide To Teaching Your Kids Good Dental Habits
Maintaining good oral health is essential and as a parent you would want to instil some good dental habits in your kids. You may be struggling with where to begin or what the most appropriate techniques are. There are many considerations involved and this is why it is important to start at an early stage for best results. Follow these seven tips to ensure your kids take great care of their teeth well into adulthood.
Incorporate Entertainment
To make your kid participate actively in the process of dental care, it is essential to create a fun and positive atmosphere. Children should brush their teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each session. There is a variety of ways to make this time playful and entertaining. For example, you could sing a song while you brush and floss or narrate an interesting story. Make sure you find colourful toothbrushes preferably with their favourite cartoons on them. This will help them stay engaged in the activity and ensure they remember what you are showing them.
Take Them To A Children’s Dentist
You should ensure you have found a reliable children’s dentist in Fulham. To protect your child from dental problems, take them to dental check-ups consistently. The welcoming environment at Fulham Road Dental can ensure your child enjoys the best oral health possible. Make sure you guide your kids properly when they lose a baby tooth with the support of a children’s dentist in Fulham. This will introduce them to the surroundings and encourage them to get used to what happens during dental examinations. As a result, they will feel more comfortable seeing a dentist on a regular basis as they grow up.
Ensure A Healthy And Varied Diet
Another key factor which is often overlooked is your children’s diet. The foods you consume on a daily basis can have an effect on the condition of your teeth. This is particularly true for children and young people. Ensure your kids eat a balanced diet and remember to explain how important this habit is. When you are considering snacks, incorporate a variety of fruit and vegetables. They contain essential nutrients which can contribute to strong teeth. Some age ranges can be particularly hard when it comes to preparing the right snacks. For example, if you have a toddler who is fussy, try using this guide for inspiration.
Set A Good Example
Children tend to imitate our actions. Remember that you set the tone for your children’s approach to oral hygiene. This is why you should not neglect your own dental habits. Youshould model good behaviour and explain the importance of oral care. It is advisable to explain to your kids the reasons why you are performing a certain action and how this can help them. When your kid sees you brushing your teeth and flossing every night, they will soon be able to adapt to these habits as well. By observing parents, children can learn a lot about responsibility and independence.
Choose Child-Friendly Oral Products
It is important to select dental care products which have been designed specifically for children. Look for smaller brush heads which will allow your kid to reach all their teeth and clean them thoroughly. You may also use a toothbrush timer to encourage children to spend enough time brushing every day. Ensure you find toothpaste and mouthwash in child-friendly flavours which will make your little ones more excited to do their daily brushing. If your kids wear braces, be sure to choose a power brush and floss to avoid white spots on teeth when braces are off.
Show Them How To Brush Their Teeth
Teaching kids how to brush their teeth is a long process. This is not something your child will be able to do after being shown once. It will be helpful to brush along with your child.Ensure you read this helpful information for an effective teeth-cleaning routine. The process may involve days when you do the brushing and other times when you supervise your child’s efforts. Remember to be patient and help them overcome situations where they might not want to brush or floss. Do not use fear against them as this can stay with themas adults.
Offer An Exciting Reward
Giving your child positive reinforcement can motivate them to follow good habits. This can boost their interest in dental hygiene and ensure they have a positive experience. It is a good idea to provide them with a small reward for looking after their teeth well. It is recommended to refrain from getting them sugary treats. Instead, you could offer them a sticker or red their favourite bedtime story. You could also play a game with them such as a treasure hunt. Also, make sure you praise them for a well done job and compliment them for following their routine.