Creating Healthy Smiles: Expert Advice From a Kids Dentist

Asking your kids dentist how to keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy can be rewarding. Children go through many changes regarding dental health during the formative years. It is important to understand what strategies will help your child keep up with these changes. Here are some effective tips from your pediatric dentist in making your child’s smile stay healthy.

Proper daily oral care

A kids dentist will always stress the importance of daily flossing and brushing. Children should floss before bed and brush at least twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Always remind the child how important these daily care habits are for young teeth. Maintaining these oral care practices can prevent cavities.

Stock up on healthy drinks and snacks

Studies show that parents who control the snacks in the home help their kids have healthier teeth. A kids dentist would recommend stocking the pantry and fridge with healthy snacks. Fresh fruits and vegetables are ideal for teeth and gums. Repack these foods in food containers so that kids can grab them and go. Also, bottled water is better than sports drinks or sodas.

Schedule early dental checkups

An experienced pediatric dentist understands that children need a great start regarding dental health. This means bringing the child to the dentist before or when the first tooth emerges. Regular checkups must begin at this time. This can help prevent or treat oral issues.

Maintain a balanced diet

Nutrition plays a huge part in oral health. Encouraging kids to eat more dairy products, fruits, and vegetables can bolster oral health. Limit the intake of sugary snacks and drinks. When teeth and gums are healthy, the whole body stays in top shape.

Protect the teeth

Active kids are prone to accidents or injuries. A custom-fit mouthguard is necessary when the child engages in contact sports or outdoor adventures. This dental device can protect the teeth from possible damage in case of trauma. A kids dentist can provide a mouthguard that snugly fits around the child’s teeth.

Bruxism is teeth grinding or jaw clenching. This habit often happens at night or during stressful situations. The pressures of bruxism can result in early dental wear. The pediatric dentist can provide a custom-fit nightguard. This device can protect the teeth from damaging grinding motions.

Getting dental sealants or fluoride treatments is also an effective way to protect young teeth. Dental sealants give chewing surfaces an extra layer of protection. The kids dentist will paint the liquid sealant on these surfaces, which hardens once it interacts with saliva. The patient can also get fluoride treatments that strengthen the enamel. Fluoride is also a naturally occurring element that protects teeth from bacterial acid attacks.