Kids are constantly growing and changing, and their mouths are no exception! Throughout childhood, kids lose their baby teeth, gain adult teeth, and they begin to take ownership over their own oral health. From brushing to braces to practicing their smile, oral health is important for every kid at every stage.
We know you love to see your child smile! Hawkins Family Dentistry does too. Read our tips to learn how to help keep your kid smiling for life.
Your child’s first teeth, often called “baby teeth” make their momentous arrival and continue to serve many purposes until they fall out and are replaced by adult teeth. Baby teeth hold a place in the jaw and pave the way for the adult teeth to grow in properly.
Kids who develop cavities are more likely to develop them later as adults. Don’t dismiss the importance of oral health for kids, even though there’s so much transition in their mouth in these early days.
Basic oral health for kids includes brushing and flossing twice a day. Be sure your child is brushing long enough (and having some fun) by playing a favorite song that’s roughly two minutes long and brush the whole time.
Very young children may still need help and supervision to be sure they’ve thoroughly brushed all their teeth. But don’t wait to teach your kid how to do this on her own—kids are more likely to participate if they feel empowered and valued in the process.
For kids 3 and up, fluoride toothpaste is safe and recommended for the best tooth care and prevention.
Kids need good nutrition for growing, healthy bodies—teeth and gums included! Serve meals with lots of vitamins and minerals, and make sugary snacks and drinks a rare treat to prevent cavities and tooth decay.
And of course, take your child to see the dentist twice a year for checkups and professional cleanings.
Your kid’s oral healthcare should be just as personal as all of their interests and activities. Depending on your family’s lifestyle, here are some special ways to celebrate and protect your kid’s teeth:
Children should visit the dentist twice a year, just like adults. After cleaning your child’s teeth, your dentist may suggest:
Dr. Hawkins in Midlothian provides professional dental care for kids of all ages. Make an appointment for your child today to invest in millions of smiles to come.
http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/babies-and-kids/
http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/life-stages/childrens-oral-care
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