Halloween is just around the corner. As your children enjoy the festivities and the various candies, use it as an opportunity to teach your children about oral hygiene. Children need to learn about oral hygiene from a young age to promote a lifetime of healthy oral habits. With candy and other sugary foods a leading cause for tooth decay, Halloween offers the perfect time to explain to children how to keep their teeth strong and healthy. With cavities the leading problem we treat in children, you can set the example for oral health by educating your children about healthy oral habits. As your family dentist in Fayetteville, we have the tips you need to start the discussion.

Oral Hygiene Habits for Kids

Often, children do not understand the long-term implications poor oral habits will have on their oral and overall health. However, you can change that by taking the time to explain to your children the importance of oral care. With you setting the example, your children will have a positive role model to make their oral health a priority.

Brushing Daily

Your children need to learn how to brush their teeth properly twice a day. Children often rush through flossing, missing critical areas that are prone to tooth decay. Teach your children how to correctly hold their toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and how to make the proper brushing motion. Show them how to correctly brush all of the surfaces of the teeth, especially the back teeth and the inside surfaces of the teeth.

Floss Daily

Most children do not enjoy flossing. However, flossing is vital to preventing tooth decay between the teeth. Not to mention, even children can get gum disease. Teach your children how to correctly insert the floss between each tooth to form a “C” shape around the tooth. Explain how to slide the floss down the tooth without snapping the floss onto the gum line.

Healthy Diet for Healthy Teeth

The foods your children eat can either help or hurt their oral health. Explain to your children the risks of eating surgery foods, like candy, and acidic foods that cause damage to the teeth. Together, find healthier alternatives that promote oral health, such as low-fat dairy products, fruits, and vegetables.

Visiting the Dentist

It is recommended, children visit the dentist for the first time before the age of two for a cleaning and checkup. The younger a child starts to have regular appointments with the dentist, the more likely they will continue the habit into adulthood. Home hygiene is only half of the preventive care your children need. They must visit the dentist twice a year for optimal oral health.

Your Family Dentist for Healthy Smiles

We strive to build generations of healthy smiles as a family dentist. We enjoy setting the right foundation for our young patients to ensure they properly care for their teeth over the years. We will provide the necessary cleanings and checkups while taking the time to educate children about oral hygiene.