Family-Friendly Dental Tips for National Children’s Dental Health Month

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), nearly one in five children under age 5, almost half of children ages 6-11, and half of 12- to 19-year-olds have suffered dental decay. Since tooth decay remains the most common chronic childhood disease, teaching kids how to maintain healthy teeth and gums is crucial, and starting oral care early is key.

February marks National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM), an event the ADA sponsors to encourage parents, teachers, and caregivers to highlight the importance of oral health and instill lifelong dental habits in children.

States like California require dental exams for children before they start school to combat the widespread issue of poor oral health. However, we recommend you schedule your child’s initial dental visit with Krystle Fenton, DDS, and our team at Laguna Vista Dental in Elk Grove, California, when their first tooth appears or by their first birthday.

Early visits allow us to monitor tooth development and provide preventive care. We also offer parents advice on effective oral hygiene.

Parents often ask, “Why care so much about baby teeth?” These little teeth save space for permanent ones and help children speak clearly and chew food properly. Neglecting their care can lead to decay, impacting future oral health. Without treatment, cavities in baby teeth can lead to infections, causing pain and other health problems. Starting good habits early ensures healthy smiles for life.

Dental care tips for children

Help your kids look after their teeth and gums with these family-friendly dental care tips:

1. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, ensuring kids brush for two minutes.
2. Floss daily as soon as teeth touch to prevent decay between the teeth.
3. Encourage calcium-rich snacks like cheese and limit sugary treats that increase cavity risk.
4. Worn-out bristles can’t remove plaque properly, so keep an eye on the toothbrush’s condition. Replace your child’s toothbrush every three to four months to ensure effective cleaning.

Read on for more ways to support children’s oral health.

Turn oral health routines into engaging activities

Create a brushing chart and reward kids with stickers for consistent brushing. Singing songs or using a timer can also make brushing more fun. Read books about dental care, such as “The Tooth Book” by Dr. Seuss, and celebrate milestones like cavity-free checkups with small prizes to keep motivation high.

Get creative with storytelling! Share tales of “bad bugs” being defeated by the mighty toothbrush and floss, making dental care a heroic mission. These playful narratives can encourage kids to embrace their daily routines more enthusiastically.

Visit the dentist regularly

Routine dental visits every six months help catch problems early and reinforce healthy habits. During these visits, our dental hygienists can provide professional cleanings, apply fluoride treatments, and offer personalized tips for maintaining oral health at home.

Prevent baby bottle tooth decay

Avoid putting sugary drinks in bottles, especially at bedtime. Milk, formula, and juice might seem harmless but can significantly increase cavity risks when consumed frequently or before sleep. Prolonged exposure to sugary liquids can lead to baby bottle tooth decay, where bacteria in the mouth produce acids that erode enamel. Water is the safest option.

Oral health’s link to overall well-being

Good oral hygiene doesn’t just mean a sparkling smile. Studies show that poor dental health can lead to other issues, such as difficulty eating or speaking, low self-esteem, and an increased risk of infections. Teaching kids proper oral care early contributes to their overall health and well-being, boosting their confidence and quality of life.

Teaching kids to prioritize oral health helps them benefit from a lifetime of healthy smiles. Let’s make February a month filled with fun learning about tooth care so oral health becomes an enjoyable and familiar part of children’s daily routines. Call Laguna Vista Dental today or complete the online inquiry form to schedule a consultation for your child.