Protecting Your Children’s Smiles
October 9, 2017
Prevention is critical to healthy smiles and good oral health. Prevention is also an essential part of setting up a healthy smile for children. Good oral hygiene habits developed at a young age can carry into adulthood. Good oral hygiene includes both brushing and flossing at home, and developing a routine for visiting your dentist at least twice a year. Preventative options such as dental sealants and fluoride treatments can also make a difference in protecting your children’s smiles. Even daily mindfulness when it comes to drinking plenty of water and balancing good snacks with the bad are all part of smile protection.
Good Oral Health Habits
Brushing and flossing is important to do at least twice a day for everybody. For children, it is important that you monitor the brushing and flossing until you are sure that your child is effectively brushing and flossing. Brushing should be at least two minutes per session. Children’s toothbrushes and floss can be great ways to encourage fun hygiene sessions. Checkups and cleanings should happen at least twice a year. Keeping up with appointments can set a good relationship between the dentist and your child.
Sealants and Fluoride Treatments
Dental sealants are when a thin, protective plastic coat is applied directly to the surface of clean teeth. The sealant prevents bacteria, plaque, and tartar from causing tooth decay and cavities. Dental sealants are not an all-out candy pass, but they can help be a last line of defense against potentially bad habits that children may have. Fluoride treatments are also applied directly to the teeth in an effort to remineralize and strengthen the enamel of the teeth. Strong enamel can protect the tooth against decay and damage.
Drinking Water and Balanced Treats
Drinking plenty of water keeps the body hydrated and the mouth rinsed of harmful materials. When it comes to sweet drinks and treats, balance is important. When choosing between fruit juice or a whole piece of fruit, the piece of fruit is a healthier choice for a mouth. The fiber in fruit can create a brushing type effect for the teeth, while inducing plenty of saliva production.
Schedule an Appointment for Your Children
Our team at Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas can help protect your children’s smile. To schedule a consultation , call our office in Kansas City, MO, today at 816-427-4018.