A good oral hygiene routine starting at a young age can make the habits stick and protect their long-term health. If you have noticed that your little one struggles with brushing and flossing, or dislikes going to the dentist, it can make taking care of their teeth difficult. Your team at Sunny Smiles offers a caring approach to children’s dentistry that may be able to improve their routines. In our blog today, we’re here with a few tips to make oral hygiene easier for young patients.
Start Dental Visits Early
Many parents are surprised to find out that the very first dental checkup should take place around the age of one year old. This can seem quite young, but the initial visit is used to track the development of their smile, answer any questions you may have, and begin a record of oral health care. By starting dental visits early, you can also help your child feel more comfortable with the dental team. After their initial visit, they can begin biannual checkups around the age of three years old that include cleaning and examination.
Plan Restorations On Time
Some kids may experience dental-related anxiety if they have an oral health issue that has not been treated promptly. For instance, if they experience sensitivity due to an untreated cavity, they may feel embarrassed of the cavity or fear that treatment could potentially cause more discomfort. By planning dental fillings as soon as they are necessary, it can help protect their smile and prevent further harm. Before they come in for their treatment, you can also explain to them what the procedure will involve and that it will be done in just a short amount of time.
Take Care At Home
Dental checkups help keep smiles plaque-free and healthy, but that’s not the only step you should be taking. At home, you should be helping your child brush and floss at least twice a day. These steps help remove food particles and bacteria that can accumulate throughout the day. Many kids struggle with this step, as it can seem boring, or they may experience sensory issues with the toothpaste or toothbrush. If your child has a hard time brushing their teeth at home, there are a few steps that can be able to improve this. You can try changing their toothpaste or getting them a fun new toothbrush. Doing your oral hygiene routine alongside them can also make the routine feel more fun and less like a chore. You can also ask their dental team for other tips to make this easier.
Learn More With Our Team
If your child’s first few teeth have erupted, it’s time to schedule their very first dental visit. To make an appointment with our team, call Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, today at 915-759-7000.