image

Teaching Your Child Good Oral Hygiene Habits

You want everything to go well for your child, including growing up with a bright, healthy smile. At Newmarket Dentistry, Dr. Richard Lee-Shanok and his team are here to help you teach your child good oral hygiene habits. They form the foundation of family dentistry services we provide in our Newmarket, ON, office.

Good oral hygiene begins at home

Parents, take the lead in modeling, demonstrating, and following through with your family's oral health. Start the basics as soon as your baby gets a primary tooth. Help your young child brush and floss properly, and even help that tween or teen stick with daily brushing and flossing.

Really, the habits are so important. Despite the care that today's dentists, such as Dr. Lee-Shanok provide, many school-age kids have untreated decay. Due diligence at the dinner table and at the bathroom sink can lower that number.

Here's how to help children

  1. Brush two times a day for two minutes. This can seem like a long time for a young child. So, Mom or Dad should help with brushing or supervise the older youngster to ensure a thorough job. Use a brushing app or phone timer.
  2. Select a fluoride toothpaste and a junior-sized toothbrush. Include your child in the selection so he or she enjoys them.
  3. Begin daily flossing as soon as teeth touch together. Again, supervision is key.
  4. Offer plenty of water throughout the day, and avoid sugary sodas and sports drinks.
  5. Plan nutritious meals and snacks. High-calcium and high-fiber choices are great for teeth and gums and keep weight under control.
  6. Use a rewards chart for a job well done. Stickers or fun activities make great rewards.
  7. For older children involved in sport, invest in a quality mouthguard for consistent use during team play. It protects against oral lacerations, chipped and knocked out teeth and the wear caused by teeth clenching.
  8. Make semi-annual visits to Newmarket Dentistry enjoyable. Be positive about going to the dentist, and do a fun activity afterward.

Beautiful smiles for life

That's the goal your Newmarket, ON, family dentist, Dr. Richard Lee-Shanok has for your entire family. Our team supports your efforts in leading your child to good oral care at home. Call Newmarket Dentistry for more information: (905) 830-1010.

This website includes materials that are protected by copyright, or other proprietary rights. Transmission or reproduction of protected items beyond that allowed by fair use, as defined in the copyright laws, requires the written permission of the copyright owners.