Form Oral Health Habits with Children
Establishing healthy dental habits early on can set your child up for better oral and overall health throughout their life. Protect your child’s smile by helping them practice preventive care. Caring for Baby Teeth Did you know that baby teeth need similar dental care as adult teeth? When baby teeth first appear between 6 and 12 months, that’s a sign to schedule a dental visit for your child. Tooth decay can occur as soon as baby teeth appear, so don’t delay in assisting your child with preventive care, including brushing their teeth twice a day. Simply follow the recommended practices and use a child-size toothbrush and pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Once your child can brush their teeth without assistance, continue to supervise their daily routine to make sure they follow proper brushing techniques. While you aid your child’s oral health, keep an eye on other normal behaviors, such as […]
Toothpaste and Mouthwash 101
Choosing the right dental hygiene products plays a significant role in your oral health. That’s why it’s so important to consider what products to choose. Understanding the different types of toothpaste and mouthwash, including their ingredients, is key to determining what’s best for you. Key Toothpaste Ingredients Fortunately, there’s a range of options for you to choose from when it comes to toothpaste. One main decision is whether to select a paste, gel or powder toothpaste. All are effective in cleaning your teeth well and contain the same basic ingredients, such as flavoring agents, which gives toothpaste its minty fresh scent. They’re also composed of a cleaning and polishing agent that helps remove plaque, debris and surface stains on your teeth. When choosing which type of toothpaste is right for you, consult your dentist, especially if you have sensitive teeth or gum disease. Supplementary Toothpaste Ingredients Depending on your age, […]
Keeping your mouth healthy for a lifetime
Oral health is important no matter what your age. Taking proper care of your teeth and gums can help keep the rest of your body healthy by maintaining the balance of good oral bacteria and keeping infections at bay. Following these tips coupled with regular dental visits will help keep your mouth healthy for a lifetime. Infants and Toddlers Baby teeth are important. They help children speak and chew properly and hold space for the permanent teeth growing below the gums.1 Read more. Prior to teeth erupting, wipe baby’s gums with a wet washcloth daily. Once the first baby tooth has erupted, begin brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste the size of a grain of rice. Children should visit the dentist within six months of the first tooth or by age 1. To prevent “baby bottle” tooth decay, do not put a child to sleep with a bottle full […]
Tips to Keep Your Smile Healthy During Summer
Warm summer weather brings outdoor activities and family and friends gathering to have fun in the sun or enjoy a pleasant evening outside. Eating an abundance of fresh vegetables and fruits that are available now is a great way to eat well, give you energy and keep your teeth healthy, too! For other summer activities, here are some tips to protect your healthy and strong smile. To beat the heat, water is your best option for staying hydrated. Sugary drinks such as soda, energy drinks, juice and sports drinks can cause tooth decay. Eliminating or reducing them by substituting water, sparkling water, diluted juice or unsweetened beverages will benefit your teeth and health. And, don’t chew ice cubes because you risk cracking a tooth or a filling. Protect your mouth and teeth while participating in sports and other activities by wearing a mouthguard even in non-contact activities such as skateboarding. […]
Inspire your kids to care for their smiles
When it comes to dental care habits for children, a little fun can go a long way. By adding some extra excitement into their oral hygiene routine, you can help motivate them to keep their smile healthy throughout childhood and the rest of their lifetime. Reward them for successes Whether your child remembered to floss or said no to sugar at a sleepover, small rewards can be a big boost for good oral health behavior. Read them their favorite book or two before bed if they brushed for the full two minutes. Or set up a reward chart and add a fun sticker every time they remember to floss without a reminder throughout the week. Find hygiene tools that make them smile Children need basic tooth care tools and supplies like a toothbrush, floss, toothpaste and toothbrush holder. But no one said those tools have to be boring. Choose brushes […]
