Proper oral hygiene and tooth care are incredibly important in the early stages of life. Family dentists will tell you that creating positive habits from an early age can drastically improve oral health and act as preventative care in the face of dental disasters.
Did you know that approximately 18.6% of children between the ages five and 19 will suffer from untreated cavities? Problems like this are completely preventable and very easily treatable when they occur. It all begins with practices that begin in the family home at an early age. Here are some important ones to implement from day one and keep as habits going forward.
Children aren’t remarkably dextrous little beings at the beginning of their lives, yet they need to learn proper oral care techniques early. Children are quick learners and will absorb practices that are put into action routinely. Not brushing too hard, flossing between each tooth, and brushing and using mouthwash for the appropriate amount of time are all foundational habits that strong teeth are built on.
Human beings are creatures of habit and without consistency easily fall into complacency. Complacency in family established dental health practices is where lapses in healthy teeth are born. We understand that sometimes life gets hectic, especially with children. A morning and evening brushing routine with your children is less than 10 minutes of your day to build habits they’ll carry into adulthood with healthy smiles. Don’t underestimate the power of consistency.
At times, oral issues are unavoidable. They happen. It’s important that you’re attentive to your child’s oral health because it’s very possible for them not to know something is wrong until the problem escalates. With consistency, you should still be inspecting the teeth of your children, asking if everything feels alright, and paying attention to subtle signs of potential problems.
In the end, nothing should replace regular checkups at your family dentist. Checkups should be scheduled at least twice a year and you should never hesitate to contact them if you’re concerned about something. It’s better to give a ring than sleep on oral health. Now, smile, you’re doing great.
