Starting kids’ healthy dental habits early

Kids can start seeing a pediatric dentist once their first tooth appears, but should visit no later than their first birthday. Not only is it helpful to make sure those new teeth are as healthy as they should be, but it can help kids develop a relationship with the dentist and avoid future anxiety (as you may be all too familiar with!). From that point on, it’s typically recommended that kids see the dentist for check-ups every six months, but talk to your children’s dentist to discuss the best plan for them.

Getting rid of the “binky” may be many parents’ worst nightmare, but long-term pacifier use past age 2 can have a negative impact on kids’ dental development. Along the same lines, try to avoid giving younger babies and toddlers a bottle at bedtime or in bed. The sugars that occur naturally in some beverages can contribute to decay if babies’ teeth are exposed overnight. Try to clean their teeth after their last bottle or nursing session of the day and stick to water if baby needs a bottle to fall asleep.

To help avoid tooth decay, help your kids choose healthy food and drink options that do not have high amounts of sugar in them, since sugar can lead to cavities. This is important even for young babies, as drinking juice and other sweet drinks through a bottle and even a sippy cup can contribute to early dental issues. Talk to your kid’s doctor or dentist if they are regularly taking flavored medicines that are high in sugar. You may need to take extra steps to help protect their new teeth from decay.

In addition to minimizing sugar, incorporating plenty of fruits, vegetables and other healthy foods into your family’s meals and snacks can contribute to healthier teeth and gums, as well as overall well-being.

Start a routine early on by brushing your kids’ teeth twice a day with a small amount of fluoride toothpaste. Help them start to take more responsibility for this habit as they get older, but work with them to make sure they are cleaning their teeth effectively. This can be started as soon as a baby’s first tooth appears, but before then, it’s recommended to clean baby’s gums with a clean, moist cloth.

Kids learn by watching you! If your children see you brush and floss regularly, they are more likely to do the same. And you should also consider visiting the dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups!

The mineral fluoride is critical to strengthening tooth enamel and helping prevent tooth decay, especially for kids as their teeth are developing. Contact your local health department to confirm if fluoride is added to your area’s tap water. If not, talk with your children’s dentist about other ways to ensure your child is getting enough fluoride.