How to Teach Your Child the Value of Oral Hygiene

As a parent, it’s a very daunting task to teach your child the value of oral hygiene. It is especially difficult when they are in the preschool years and more likely to be distracted and uninterested in what you have to say. The key, according to dental instructor Elizabeth J. Hodges, who often lectures on this topic, is to make teaching fun for both parent and child.

This blog will discuss some ideas on how to keep your child interested in their oral health.

Why It Matters

Keeping good oral hygiene is so important as a child. As a parent, you probably know this, but how do you convince your child that it is important. When you maintain a clean mouth, you will have lesser chances of dental diseases and tooth loss. Good dental hygiene also plays a huge role for aesthetic reasons as it keeps your teeth looking polished and white and also reduces the chance of experiencing bad breath.

Habits to Teach

Regular Dental Checkups
It’s important to take your child to the dentist for regular checkups (at least every six months). This will help them get into the habit of seeing a dentist on a regular basis, which will help them even as they grow into adults.

Eating Healthy Foods
Eating healthy at a young age is so important for children. This will help them get into the habit of eating fruits and vegetables and actually enjoy them. Eating healthy is great for oral health and will keep their teeth stay in good condition

Brushing Twice a Day
Showing your child that it is important to brush their teeth twice a day is a great practice. You can even start this before your child actually starts teething. You can start by wiping their gums with a soft foam, and once they start to grow teeth, you can upgrade to a baby toothbrush. This will help your child to grow up with the familiarity of having their teeth brushed.

Flossing
Teaching your child at a young age that not only brushing, but also flossing your teeth is another great way to keep their mouth healthy. If this is difficult for you as a parent, you can have your dentist help show them at their regular checkup!

Lead By Example
Your child learns the most from you as their parent. Showing them how important oral hygiene is and practicing good oral hygiene is one of the best ways for them to learn. When you put both your child’s and your own dental hygiene as a top priority, your child will grow up understanding the importance of taking care of your teeth.

 

It is imperative to teach your child how to take care of their teeth at a young age. We’re always happy to answer any questions or address any concerns you may have. Call either of our two locations today and we can schedule an appointment.

Broad Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics – Lynnfield, MA

6 Kimball Lane, Suite 140, Lynnfield MA 01940
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Hours

School Year
Monday: 9:00am - 5:00pm
Tuesday-Thursday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Select Fridays: 8:00am - 2:00pm
Select Saturdays: 8:00am - 1:00pm

Summer
Monday: 8:00am - 4:00pm
Tuesday-Thursday: 7:30am - 4:00pm
Select Fridays: 7:30am - 1:00pm

Phone

781-334-8442

Email Address

[email protected]

Broad Smiles Pediatric Dentistry- Salem, MA

600 Loring Avenue
Salem, MA 01970
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Hours

School Year
Monday: 8:00am - 4:30pm
Tuesday: 8:00am - 4:30pm
Wednesday: 8:00am - 4:30pm
Thursday: 8:00am - 4:30pm

Summer
Monday-Thursday: 7:30am - 4:00pm

Phone

(978) 910-0004

Email Address

[email protected]

Broad Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics – Lynn, MA

77 Broad Street
Lynn, MA 01902
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Hours

School Year
Monday: 9:00am - 5:00pm
Tuesday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Thursday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Friday: 8:00am - 2:00pm

Summer
Monday-Thursday: 7:30am - 4:00pm

Phone

(781) 599-2900

Email Address

[email protected]