If you are a parent who tries daily to get your kids to brush their teeth, then you can benefit from these tips from a pediatric dentist. Pediatric dentists focus on younger patients and understand that kids often have little interest in oral health. Because pediatric dentists specialize in caring for children like yours, these dentists can be a wealth of information for you. Cavities can be very painful for your child and cause many problems. Here are a few tips from a pediatric dentist to prevent cavities in your child.
Get an in-person demonstration. It sounds overly simple, but every parent can benefit from checking in with the pediatric dentist. The dentist can show parents and caregivers how to position the toothbrush for the most effective brushing. Pediatric dentists can also demonstrate how to floss little mouths. Seeing these things done can be far more helpful than reading a description.
Have the dentist explain what happens with good and bad oral health. Pediatric dentists specialize in treating children and often have a lot of practice in how to explain how things work and why. Dentists can show children what happens when they do not brush and floss. Cavities in children are serious and can be very painful and uncomfortable. If the dentist has to remove teeth due to tooth decay, it can cause problems with the other teeth and with eating or speaking. Some kids respond well to hearing an explanation from an authority figure.
Children like to have some control. Letting kids choose toothbrushes or kinds of toothpaste can help them to feel some ownership and personal responsibility. Fun colors and flavors make it seem like less of a chore. Some children do not fully understand what cavities are, but empowering them to choose dental tools can help them to feel involved.
Do oral health routines together. Some kids do not like to do things by themselves. It might be more fun if a sibling or parent does oral care with them. Toothbrushing and flossing can be a fun event involving multiple family members. Family members can challenge each other to brush for the full length of time.
Parents should not rely on children to remember to brush twice a day. Children often forget or may actively choose not to do it if it is not enjoyable for them. Parents might have a routine down, but children need help. Setting an alarm can help children develop consistency.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Pediatric Dentist in Reston, VA
You can also gently remind your child to brush at a designated time. It can be tough, but you need to be consistent even if your child resists. The alternative is potentially cavities and tooth decay. Establishing these habits when your child is young does stay with them into adulthood. It is much harder to form good oral care habits as an adult without that encouragement and consistency from you.
Request an appointment or call Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry at 703-391-8800 for an appointment in our Reston office.
Cavity treatment for kids can help children maintain their long-term oral health. Tooth decay in children can lead to discomfort, infection, and long-term dental complications if left untreated. Fortunately, early detection and appropriate pediatric dental care can prevent complications and support healthy oral development as children grow up.Cavities develop when bacteria in the mouth feed…
An emergency pediatric dentist is a parent’s go-to resource when unexpected dental issues arise. From accidents to sudden pain, these dental providers offer specialized care to restore children’s oral health and comfort quickly. Understanding their role and the treatments they offer empowers parents to handle dental emergencies with confidence, ensuring prompt, compassionate care for every…
Calcium and vitamins have important pediatric dental benefits for your child. They help their bones grow and develop, as well as help with their tooth development. Besides brushing and flossing regularly, children also need to have balanced nutrition for healthy teeth and gums. This article covers the importance of calcium and vitamins, so parents can…
Misaligned teeth are not just an aesthetic issue; they can lead to numerous problems, including oral pain, speech, and digestive issues, and increased tooth decay and gum disease. Invisalign® for teens is very effective in straightening teeth for improved confidence and better oral health. This type of treatment also offers unique perks that traditional braces…
A teenage boy or girl who deals with a crooked smile or uneven bite could be able to use Invisalign® for teens as a corrective treatment. The adolescent and high schools years are often filled with social pressure and a desire for acceptance, and any problems or concerns with a teen’s smile could create self-confidence…