5 Ways to Instill Healthy Dental Habits in Your Kids

A lot goes into raising a kid, but one important part of their health is their dental hygiene. If you’re a parent, we’re here to offer these 5 ways to instill healthy dental habits in your kids. Not only will this give them a healthy smile now, but it will set their smile up for success for the rest of their lives. 

Why Dental Hygiene is Important From a Young Age

If you think about the hygiene habits you have now, it’s more than likely because someone taught you what to do when you were young. When you teach your children from a young age that their dental hygiene is important, they are more likely to carry those healthy habits into their teen and adult years. The American Academy of Pediatrics lists tooth decay as the number-one dental problem among preschoolers. In addition to that:

• 1-out-of-10 2 year olds have already had one more cavities 
• By age 3, 28% of children have had at least one cavity 
• At age 5, almost 50% of children have had one or more cavities 

To prevent becoming part of these statistics, it’s important to establish good dental habits with your children. The good news? Cavities are preventable with the use of fluoride and good dental habits. 

5 Ways to Instill Healthy Dental Habits in Kids

If you’re a parent or caregiver to young children, here are 5 ways you can instill those healthy dental habits.

1.Take them to the dentist 

As soon as they get their first tooth or turn a year old (whichever is sooner), they should see the dentist. Taking your child to the dentist from this early age will help them be more comfortable in the dental chair as they go in for their cleanings twice a year, for orthodontic care if needed later on, and other dental problems they might face. If you avoid taking them to the dentist while they’re little, they’re more likely to develop dental phobia and be scared of their trips to the dentist when they’re older. 

2.Making brushing teeth non-negotiable 

We know it can be a struggle to stop them from watching their favorite TV show to go brush their teeth, but it has to be non-negotiable. Twice a day, you should make it mandatory that they go to the bathroom to brush their teeth. While they’re young, stay in there and monitor them as they brush and help them as needed. While they’re learning, make sure you’re teaching them proper technique. We recommend brushing in small circles, and really focusing on the gumline to help remove plaque and food debris. 

3.Make it fun 

While brushing your kids teeth is non-negotiable, it doesn’t mean that it can’t be fun. Find a fun 2-minute long song to play and dance to while they brush their teeth. Or, make up with your own family-fun song to sing when it’s time to go brush teeth. Making this a fun experience will make children more excited to brush their teeth each day. 

4.Watch what they eat

Your child’s diet will play a big role in their oral health. Make sure that they’re not eating too many crunchy, sticky sweets, and limit the amount of sugar they consume — this includes sugary drinks, too! The bacteria in the mouth thrives on sugar, so too much sugar can be linked back to cavities and decay in children (and adults too). 

5.Let them choose their supplies

Take your children to the store with you and let them pick out their toothbrush and toothpaste (with your final stamp of approval, of course). Whether it’s their favorite color or has their favorite movie character on it, this will be another level of fun for them to enjoy each day while they brush their teeth. 

Bring Your Kids to Stonebrook Family Dental 

Located in Aurora, Colorado, Stonebrook Family Dental provides advanced family dental care, for your child and you. If you think your child has a cavity or if you want more tips to help them with their dental hygiene, come see Dr. Kevin Varley. Our kid-friendly office reinforces a positive dental experience during childhoods which is the foundation of a lifetime of good oral health habits and healthy smiles. Our friendly and gentle team understands that many children can be scared or nervous about coming to the dentist, so we always take the time to help our younger patients feel at ease in our care. You can rest assured knowing your child’s visit will be easy, educational, and most importantly— fun! Make an appointment with us today.