As a premier child dentist in Massachusetts, the team at Smile Boutique would like to take a moment to recognize that October is Dental Hygiene Month! We believe that teaching your children good daily habits will set them on the path for success later in life.
Here are a few dental hygiene tips to teach your little ones.
Proper brushing
One of the biggest concerns we see as a child dentist is improper brushing techniques. For children, it’s all about timing. Often rushing through the routine, plaque and other substances can be left on the tooth creating cavities and other mouth diseases. Learning to take your time and brush gently in a circular motion is vital to clean teeth!
It’s not just about the teeth
Often neglected, our tongue and gums are also important! Not only do we need to take the time to brush our teeth properly, but our tongues and gums as well. With the same brushing technique as your teeth, you can eliminate plaque buildup, mouth odors, and potential gum diseases.
When the choice is yours, choose fluoride
Although there’s hype about fluoride, there are more benefits than not. Fluoride is the leading defense when it concerns tooth decay. Not only will it ward off germs, but fluoride will also create a protective barrier to your teeth.
Floss
Believe it or not, most people don’t floss unless they’re headed off to visit their dentist. However, that quick floss before you come in won’t fool us! Flossing at least once a day is imperative to gum health. Sure, it removes all those little food particles that get stuck throughout the day, but flossing serves a much greater purpose. Not only does flossing reduce plaque, but it also stimulates the gums to help in the reduction of inflammation. With the variety of flossing methods available at your local store, there are no more excuses!
Limit sugary foods
Regardless of the cravings and temptations, sugar turns to acid in the mouth. That acid can erode the enamel of your teeth, making them more susceptible to cavities. Now don’t get us wrong; we’re not implying that you should never treat yourself, just that you should be mindful.
Brush after every meal
An excellent habit to establish early is to brush after every meal. Not only will this remove that sugary cookie or cup of coffee, it will keep germs and inflammation at bay.
Visit your child dentist regularly!
At minimum, you should have your child visit their dentist at least once a year. Preferably twice. Not only will these visits provide thorough cleaning and fluoride treatments, but also for proper growth monitoring. From molars to wisdom teeth, regular appointments will ensure that your child’s teeth are growing the way they should.
If you’re searching for the right child dentist, look no further. The team at Smile Boutique is now accepting patients young and old. Call today for your free consultation 508.356.5446.
