Does Your Baby Have Teeth?
It’s time to come and see us! Your child should see a dentist by his or her first birthday, or as soon as their first tooth sprouts. Preventative care can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.
Oral health is vital to your kiddos overall health, and their success in life greatly depends on it. It’s super important to remember to see us regularly.
Start Early
Research has shown that children who develop poor dental health habits during their first two years of life are twice as likely to develop tooth decay. This makes it essential for parents to educate their children about their dental health, so they can develop good oral hygiene habits early in life.
Even before your baby starts teething, run a clean, damp washcloth over their gums to clear away bacteria that may be harmful.
Once your child starts to get teeth, brush them with an infant-sized toothbrush. Use water and a bit of fluoride toothpaste.
Finally, once your baby’s teeth touch, you can begin flossing in between them.
Use Fluoride
Regular use of fluoride toughens the enamel, making it harder for acid to penetrate their teeth. Fluoride is especially helpful to kids because, when teeth are growing, it mixes with tooth enamel — the hard coating on their teeth that prevents tooth decay and cavities.
After their teeth are formed, fluoride works with saliva to protect tooth enamel from plaque and sugars. Fewer cavities means healthier teeth when they’re an adult — and less of a chance of having high dental bills in the future.
Educate Them
Fear of the unknown is a big deal for kids. By teaching them healthy habits, and visiting us early– before anything is wrong, can help get your kiddos adjusted to the idea of the dentist. We want them to know just how important it is to take care of their pearly whites.
Books are also a great idea to help your child get used to the idea of the dentist. Check out this blog for some great suggestions!
Brush Their Teeth For Them
We know it’s tempting to let your kids be independent, and you might think since they can brush their teeth by themselves, they should– but this isn’t the case. Children can’t brush or floss correctly or effectively until at least the age of 8.
Flossing motor skills usually aren’t mastered until kids are at least 10 years old. You don’t always have to brush for them, but be sure to supervise them and buy a timer to make sure they brush for a full two minutes.
Don’t Make It Seem Scary
Always keep a positive attitude, and never make the dentist appear scary. Tell your kids that the dentist is looking for “sugar bugs” so he can clean them off their teeth. At their first visit, all we do is check their smile and count their teeth!
Make It Fun
Give your kids a few options of toothbrushes and kinds of toothpaste from which to choose. This will help them feel like it was their decision to brush their teeth. They’ll also be more likely to brush them each day without you having to ask or remind them.
You can also brush your teeth as a family, and even make a sticker chart. At the end of each month, if they don’t miss any brushings– let them pick out a small incentive. If the process is fun for them, it will encourage healthy habits for a lifetime.
Make An Appointment
The earlier your child comes to see us, the better. This will provide them with a place where all of their oral health needs can be met, and they can establish a familiar pattern. If you think it’s time for your child’s first check-up, make an appointment today!
Ever since he was little Dr. J. Fred Arnold wanted to be a dentist. He has lived in Kentucky all of his life, except for three years he spent serving in the Air Force (1984-1987). He and his wife Holly have raised their family here and couldn’t imagine spending life anywhere else. They love the great schools and the emphasis on arts and culture.
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