Did you know that February is National Children’s Dental Health Month? Every February since 1941, dental experts and healthcare professionals have used this time of year to promote the importance of great oral health in children. It’s the perfect time to take a moment to enjoy your little one’s precious smile and teach them how to take care of it. Find out from your family dentist in Norwood what you can teach your son or daughter this month that their smile will benefit from for the rest of their lives.
Oral Healthcare Can Be Fun
Your child won’t be enthusiastic about taking care of their oral health if their dentalcare routine feels like a chore. Try making it a fun activity by:
- Playing a catchy song they like or encouraging them to read a book they’re interested in for two minutes as they brush their teeth.
- Allowing them to pick out a toothbrush with their favorite character on it or a fun-flavored toothpaste, with your approval.
- Using a goal tracker or smartphone app to keep your child engaged in their new healthy habit.
- Setting a great example and being a good role model by brushing your teeth with them!
There’s No Need to Be Afraid of the Dentist
Waiting to take your child to the dentist until something is wrong can give them a bad impression of oral healthcare and make them anxious about dental visits. An early introduction to the new sights, sounds, and friendly faces they’ll find in their Norwood dentist’s office will help them feel more at ease and comfortable when sitting in the examination chair later. These good memories will encourage them to continue getting their dental checkups as they grow.
It’s Important to Eat Healthy
Did you know that tooth decay is the single most common chronic childhood illness? A key part of teaching your son or daughter how to protect their smile is to teach them the importance of limiting sugar intake and eating healthy. Some healthy habits to help your child prevent tooth decay include:
- Reducing the amount of snacking or sipping throughout the day, especially on soda, juice, chips, and junk food.
- Offering smile-friendly snacks like carrots, cheese, yogurt, nuts, and other foods that strengthen enamel.
- Encouraging them to drink more tap water, which will keep them hydrated, help prevent cavities, and fortify their teeth with fluoride.
With these easy tips, you can help get your son or daughter excited about great oral hygiene routines. The habits that you teach them now will set them up for a lifetime of happy, healthy smiles.
About the Practice
Central Dental Associates in Norwood, MA is proud to provide excellent, comfortable, and efficient oral healthcare for the whole family. Our skilled team of experienced dentists brings together a wide range of knowledge, training, and specialties to help you and your family feel confident and comfortable during every procedure. They would be happy to help teach your son or daughter about the importance of great oral hygiene, so feel free to contact them at their website or at (781) 769-3566.