Teaching children to maintain good oral hygiene is an important part of a child’s healthy lifestyle. It is worth noting that parents in Glen Ellyn, IL play an invaluable part in keeping their kids’ teeth and gums healthy and clean from an early age. In this article, we will talk about practical tips for teaching your kids to maintain oral hygiene that will last for a lifetime with the help of a dentist in Glen Ellyn, IL.

Start Early with Dental Care

Maintaining good oral hygiene starts before that first tooth erupts. After feedings, wipe your baby’s gums with a soft, clean, damp cloth. When the first tooth comes in, clean the teeth twice a day using a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste. Getting in the habit of it early gets your child used to the process.

Make Brushing Fun

Turn brushing your children’s teeth into a fun activity to incentivize them to brush. Choose a toothbrush with their favorite cartoon character, and let them choose the flavor of toothpaste they like best. Play their theme song or put on a timer for two minutes to help them brush for the correct time.

Educate on Effective Brush Stroke Techniques

Knowing how to brush teeth properly brush teeth is an important step that needs to be taught to your child. Demonstrate how to hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and make gentle, circular movements to brush all surfaces of the teeth. Be sure to brush the tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath. Oversee your child’s brushing until they can do it effectively themselves, typically around age 7 or 8.

Encourage Flossing

Flossing cleans plaque and food from between the teeth, which a toothbrush can’t reach. Start flossing your child’s teeth as soon as they have two teeth that touch. Move it back and forth with light pressure so you don’t hurt their gums. Floss picks or pre-threaded flossers may be easier to manage for young children. Teaching them to floss every day serves as the building blocks for a lifetime of good oral hygiene.

Cut Back on Sugary Snacks and Drinks

Oral health is also largely influenced by diet. Limit sugary snacks and drinks so your child won’t have tooth decay. Promote drinking water over sugary drinks and provide healthier snacks such as fruits, vegetables, and cheese. By helping your child understand how their diet can affect their teeth, they are better able to make appropriate choices.

Regular Dental Visits

Regular dental visits are very important for children’s oral health. Make an appointment for your child’s first visit by his or her first birthday and keep up with regular visits every six months. In Glen Ellyn, IL, pediatric dentists specifically work with children and can provide helpful tips to ensure oral hygiene, provide fluoride treatments, and use sealants for better protection of your kid’s teeth.

Lead by Example

Since children tend to copy their parents, you can set a good example by keeping your oral hygiene routine up. Brush and floss your teeth alongside your child to show them how important these habits are. Your enthusiasm and dedication to oral health will instill the same in your child.

For your children’s long-term dental health, they must learn proper oral hygiene practices in Glen Ellyn, IL. You may help your child form lifelong healthy habits by starting early, making brushing and flossing enjoyable, minimizing sugary snacks, and making frequent dental appointments. Keep in mind that the best way to make sure your child comprehends and appreciates the significance of maintaining proper dental hygiene is through your involvement and example.