As parents, we want the best for our kids at all times. It is all a learning experience where it will last them a lifetime! As such, teaching and maintaining good habits is essential to do when they are young.
In this article we are going to answer some basic questions as well as tell you some good habits and what to watch out for. Enjoy!
When should my kids start brushing and flossing?
This is a popular question we get in here, and it is quite simple too!
Even as babies, as soon as the baby teeth pop out, they are more than ready to be brushed! Keep in mind that you should use a pint size of toothpaste for the babies when brushing. Swallowing toothpaste would do no good, and wiping them with a cloth is best. As for the kids, it is okay for them to use a normal amount. But not too much since that will make a mess in their mouth and prompt them to finish earlier.
Whereas in flossing, as long as the gap between them is not too wide, they should be flossed! And of course, being as careful as ever as we do not want to harm them.
Making and following good habits since the very beginning is key.
Teaching kids good habits
As that old proverb says: “Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.” This holds true for the oral health of your kids. Once they nail down the basics with their milk teeth, the rest will be easy for when they shed them.
- Remember to take them to the dentist when they are one year old. Your dentist will be able to tell you a whole lot of things to take care of their teeth.
- Teach your children that having a good oral hygiene is of utmost importance! They might be discouraged at first, and that is where you come in.
- Motivate your kids to brush by making it entertaining. Either if it is in company, with a game or song, or by doing a small something for them for achieving proper health care, it is all fair and square!
- Make sure to supervise once they get the hands on the brush and floss. This is just to know they are doing it properly, nothing too fancy.
Oh! Also you can ask your dentist about sealants, which are a thin layer applied on the teeth to avoid the development of cavities. It is always nice to know.
And as always, here in Los Algodones, Mexico, we believe that setting the example yourself as well as a little bit of encouragement goes a long way. If they do not like brushing, talk and negotiate with them!
Watch out for sweets
And not last but not least, are sweets. They come in very different presentations and shapes that you might not be aware of. And as you know, sugary food (and starchy!) lead to tooth decay and cavities.
Be wary of your child sleeping with a baby bottle. When they fall asleep with the bottle in their mouth with breast milk, formula or juice, it is the perfect time for bacteria to grow. If you know they will sleep or take a nap, let it be with water!
The same goes for sweet medicine. It is common for medicine for children to be sugared. Keep an eye on them, even more so if your child takes a long-term prescriptions.
If you are interested in cheap dental care, do not doubt in contacting us to get the best service in Los Algodones!