4 Family Dental Tips to Keep Your Child’s Smile Healthy

As a parent, nothing is more important than fostering the health and development of your child. While you focus on the right nutrition and the best education, do not overlook another vital aspect of their well-being—their dental health. Although their baby teeth eventually fall out, they serve an important role while they are in place. They set the foundation for the health and development of their adult teeth while also allowing them to develop proper oral functions. To keep their smile strong and healthy, there are simple family dental tips to use over the years.

Tips from Your Family Dentist

Maintaining their oral health does not have to feel like a chore. With simple strategies at home, you can help foster a healthy, beautiful smile that will last for a lifetime.

1. Set the Right Foundation

To establish a lifelong commitment to their dental health, your child must understand the importance of it. It is best to create an oral hygiene routine even before their first tooth erupts. As they begin to grow, take the time to explain to them why it is vital to brush and floss daily to keep their teeth and gums healthy. Be proactive about oral habits at home by setting the example.

2. Teach Proper Oral Hygiene Habits

To maintain the health of your child’s smile, it is best to have them brush their teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste for at least two minutes each session. In addition, do not forget to have them floss before going to bed at night. It will take several years for your child to develop the correct techniques to properly clean their teeth, so you will have to supervise them while they learn.

3. Schedule Regular Dental Visits

Before your child’s first birthday, they should see their dentist for a cleaning and checkup. These routine appointments not only keep their teeth healthy but also allow your dentist to monitor their oral health. This gives your dentist the opportunity to detect issues early while they are still small. With quick intervention, the problem can be treated, decreasing the need for a costly or invasive procedure in the future.

4. Choose a Family Dentist

To make scheduling appointments easy, it is best to benefit from family dentistry. Not only can they treat everyone in your home, but it also allows your child to benefit from one amazing dental team over the years. They will develop a trusted relationship to make appointments easy and stress-free. By feeling comfortable with their dentist, they will be more likely to maintain their routine appointments into adulthood.

If your child has not had a preventive appointment this year, now is the time to plan their next visit!

About Dr. Bita Kamali

Dr. Bita Kamali strives to provide family-focused dental care to create generations of healthy smiles. She uses the latest developments in dentistry to treat patients of all ages—even young children. If your child needs a cleaning and checkup, contact Parkway Vista Dental today to schedule an appointment.