Dentist in Highland, MI Expresses the Importance of Developing Healthy Dental Habits at Home
It should not be a surprise that the earlier healthy dental habits are established, the higher success your children will have in carrying these good habits throughout the rest of their life. This is a great thing too because it’s been found that the most common disease found among children is tooth decay. A 2018 report found that 43% of American children have at least a single cavity. The team at Milford Dental and Associates in Highland, MI understands the importance of getting children started early regarding proper dental care. Our doctors promote education, preventive care, and quality treatment for children who come into Milford Dental and Associates.
The question is this: How do you place children on a path which promotes a lifetime of good oral health. Here are some tips for instilling these healthy habits in your children.
Be the Example
Habits, both good and bad, most often start at home. What your children see you, as the parent, do is often going to be what they mimic. It has been proven that when children see members of their household practicing healthy oral habits (including regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing) that they will want to follow this example. What this means is that when you are brushing your teeth, let your children see this behavior. Use positive language when it comes to talking about your oral health and making dental visits. Setting this positive example for your children is powerful.
Starting Early
You can begin teaching your little ones proper brushing techniques around the age of two or three. Find a toothbrush that is the right size for their mouth and teach proper brushing habits using just a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. If your child would like to brush by themselves, let them do it and just make sure to follow up and brush their teeth again to make sure it has been finished. In just a few years, typically by the age of six, your child should now have the dexterity to brush their teeth alone (although it is important to keep on eye on them to assess their brushing skill).
