Are you looking for a pediatric dentist in Wheat Ridge, CO? At Kid Focus Dentistry, our child-centered dentists provide care for kids of all ages. All too often, we see parents who are concerned about their children’s dental health. While regular dental visits are essential for maintaining good oral hygiene, parents play a crucial role in ensuring that their children’s teeth and gums remain healthy at home. Let’s take a look at some tips on how to care for your child’s teeth and gums between dental checkups:
Maintaining Children’s Dental Health at Home
A child’s dental health can be maintained at home through a combination of good oral hygiene practices, a healthy diet, and plenty of support from their parents. Especially if they’re not yet old enough to tie their own shoes! Below are some of the best ways to ensure that your child’s teeth and gums remain healthy so that they can avoid—or limit their risks of—preventable conditions like gingivitis and tooth decay.
1.Brushing: The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that parents brush their children’s teeth twice a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste. The ideal time to brush is after breakfast and before bed. For children under three years old, a rice-sized amount of toothpaste is sufficient, while children aged three to six should use a pea-sized amount. As your child learns to brush independently, go back behind them and re-brush to make sure everywhere is getting cleaned properly.
2. Flossing: Flossing helps to remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth, which can prevent cavities and gum disease. Parents should start flossing their child’s teeth as soon as they have two teeth that touch side by side. Parents should help their children floss until they can do it themselves, which is usually around age eight.
3. Healthy Diet: A diet that is high in sugar, juice, frequent snacking, and processed carbohydrates can increase the risk of cavities. Parents should encourage their children to eat a well-balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Sugary snacks and drinks should be limited. Encourage your child to only drink water if it’s between mealtimes and never put them to bed with milk or juice.
4. Regular Dental Visits: Plan to bring your child to a family or pediatric dentist in Wheat Ridge, CO, for regular dental check-ups and cleanings twice a year. These visits can help to identify any potential dental issues early and prevent them from becoming more significant problems. In most cases, our dentists can identify issues when they’re smaller and easier to correct.
Tips for Keeping Children’s Teeth and Gums Healthy
1. Make Brushing Fun: Children are more likely to enjoy brushing if it’s something they do with their family. Parents can make brushing time enjoyable by playing music, using fun toothbrushes with cartoon characters, and letting their child choose their toothpaste flavor.
2. Lead by Example: Children learn by watching other people, so it’s essential for parents to take the lead and demonstrate good oral hygiene themselves. Parents should brush and floss their teeth in front of their children and make toothbrushing a family activity.
3. Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward charts and prizes can be an effective way to encourage good oral hygiene habits. Parents can reward their children with stickers or small treats for brushing and flossing regularly.
4. Emphasize the Importance of Oral Hygiene: Parents should stress the importance of oral hygiene to their children. Explaining how brushing and flossing can prevent cavities and gum disease can motivate children to take care of their teeth and gums. Compare it to washing your hands or taking regular baths.
Pediatric Dentist in Wheat Ridge
At Kid Focus Dentistry, we understand the importance of great pediatric dentistry in Wheat Ridge. Our dental team is committed to helping parents care for their child’s smiles at home by providing education and guidance on proper oral hygiene practices. We offer a range of services, including routine check-ups, cleanings, and preventative treatments, to help keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!