Is your child enjoying the sweets they received on Valentine’s Day? If so, it might be time to for a dental exam and talk with them about oral hygiene.
Parents and caretakers are the most important part in a child’s dental health journey. Encouraging your children on the importance of good oral care will set them up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. The American Dental Association recommends a child’s first dental check-up should be by their first birthday.
To encourage your child to have good dental hygiene:
- Help them to brush their teeth at least TWO times a day!
- Use toothpaste with fluoride. Getting enough fluoride is key. Fluoride keeps the enamel nice and strong and stops the process of tooth decay.
- Make sure they are flossing.
- Consider limiting/avoiding some foods, such as sweets, chips, desserts, juice and soda.
When a child experiences poor oral hygiene, it can affect their overall health. For instance, children with excess bacteria in their mouth have the chance of developing problems that can lead to heart disease or other severe heart issues, when the bacteria travels through their bloodstream. Other risks include tooth decay, gum disease, and digestive issues.
Talk with your children about their oral health and encourage them to brush all their teeth twice a day. Remember, our dentists like to see your children from the first tooth. Hamilton has three dental clinics available to you for affordable dental care. Visit HamiltonCHN.org for more information.
