Tips From a Kids Dentist on Teaching Oral Hygiene

Anything can feel like a hassle when it is not a habit, including oral hygiene. A kids dentist aims to help children develop long-term oral health by making oral hygiene a habit early in life. These dental providers can give advice tailored to your child during an appointment, such as by addressing specific difficulties like dental fears or a particular dislike for brushing. However, here are a few general oral hygiene tips from a kids dentist.

Start teaching oral hygiene habits early

Teaching children how to care for their teeth properly should start as early as possible. This helps instill twice daily brushing and daily flossing as facts of life, just like bathing.

Further, there are ways to make oral hygiene seem more appealing, such as by allowing the child to select a soft toothbrush and toothpaste flavor to their liking. Many grocery and drug stores have various child-sized toothbrushes and children’s toothpaste flavors available. A kids dentist or pediatric dentist can also recommend brands for each in an appointment.

Make oral hygiene into a family activity

As any parent knows, children are highly impressionable. Fortunately, this means that parents can start to establish good oral hygiene habits by practicing them in front of their children. Simply doing daily routines like brushing and flossing can set a powerful example for them to follow.

Praise also plays a significant role in reinforcing good oral hygiene practices. Offering verbal encouragement when a child successfully brushes their teeth or remembers to floss can boost their confidence and solidify these habits. Additionally, positive reinforcement creates an association between oral hygiene and accomplishment, which can increase the chances that the child will make a habit of it that they stick to for years to come.

Take a positive approach to dental checkups

Oral hygiene goes beyond brushing and flossing. Checkups with a kids dentist or pediatric dentist are crucial to maintaining oral health. Parents can help their child feel more ready for these appointments by painting them in a positive light. This may include telling the child what will happen, helping them select a comfort item to bring (like a stuffed animal), and answering any questions they have with patience.

What happens during a dental checkup for children?

The kids dentist or pediatric dentist will perform a comprehensive examination of the mouth and have the dental hygienist clean the child’s teeth. The exam can reveal various oral health and development problems, such as impacted teeth, tooth decay, or gum disease. Meanwhile, the goal of the cleaning is to remove bacteria and tartar buildup to prevent oral disease and decay.

At the end of the checkup, the kids dentist can reinforce good habits, such as praising the child and offering rewards (e.g., small prizes or lollipops). Parents can also take the opportunity to ask the kids dentist about problems they are having regarding their child’s oral care.