Parenting is no easy task. In fact, some days it likely fills like a million jobs rolled into one. You are a cook, a chauffer, a tutor, and so much more. So when it comes to protecting your kids’ smiles, it’s understandable that you might be feeling overwhelmed or simply exhausted. The good news is that preventive oral care doesn’t have to be complicated for your kids, or trying for you. It just takes knowing what steps are necessary to protect those pearly whites, and teaching your kids how and why preventive dental care is so important to their smiles.
1. Let Them Pick Their Own Dental Care Tools
It might sound too good to be true, but letting young kids pick their own toothbrushes and pastes can help them feel empowered, where their oral care is concerned. This really is one of the simplest ways to get them excited about dental care. Simply steer their choices to those that have been approved by the American Dental Association, so you know they’re picking items that are safe and effective.
2. Take Them to a Pediatric or Family Dentist
Finding someone that specializes in children’s dental care can help ensure your kids get great preventive services, but also that they form healthy memories about visiting the dentist. Since preventive cleanings will need to be a lifelong habit, it’s incredibly helpful for them to build positive experiences from an early age. Choosing a dentist that works specifically with kids can help to make sure this happens.
3. Make Oral Care Fun for the Whole Family
Whether you choose to brush in the bathroom with your kids, or not, it’s important to teach kids that no one outgrows the need to brush and floss. These are habits that every child must master, but that every parent must also continue. Setting a good oral health example can help. So not only should you be brushing and flossing daily, just like your kids, you should also be seeing the family dentist at least twice a year for checkups and cleanings of your own.
Does Your Child Need Dental Care?
Every child over the age of one should see the dentist for routine checkups and cleanings. You can schedule your child’s next appointment with Allen Family Dentistry in Pella, IA, by calling (641) 628-1121, today.