February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, reminding all of us about the importance of taking care of our children’s teeth. Early childhood dental decay is a worldwide epidemic, making it difficult for children to talk, eat, and drink comfortably. Poor dental health can also affect children’s self-confidence, since other kids might ask about dental decay or make comments about bad breath. If left untreated, dental decay can also pose serious health threats, allowing dangerous oral bacteria to leach into your child’s bloodstream.
Fortunately, a proactive approach can help your child to enjoy a beautiful, healthy smile. Here are just a few tips for keeping your child’s teeth healthy.
Tips To Keep Your Child’s Teeth Healthy
Offer Proper Amounts of Fluoride
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps to strengthen your child’s dental enamel, warding off dental decay. If you live in an area where fluoride is infused in the water supply, encourage your child to drink tap water. If you don’t talk with your dentist about fluoride supplements to keep your child’s teeth healthy and strong.
Perfect Your Child’s Daily Dental Routine
Work with your child daily to perfect their dental hygiene routine. Until your child is old enough to do it on their own, help them to brush and floss their teeth every day. After they have mastered brushing, check their teeth regularly to make sure that they are being cleaned properly.
Focus on Preventive Care
If you really want to focus on preventing dental decay, focus on preventive care by talking with your child’s dentist about dental sealants. Dental sealants are a clear plastic shield that is painted onto the teeth to protect them from food accumulation and bacteria. Talk with your Indianapolis family dentist about whether or not sealants are right for your child.
Schedule Your Child’s Preventive Checkup Today
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends bringing your child in for a dental checkup when they turn one or develop their first tooth, whichever comes first. Afterwards, children should be seen every six months with the rest of the family. If it has been awhile since your child’s last dental checkup, schedule an appointment with Newman Family Dentistry. In addition to focusing on keeping kids healthy and happy, our office is a fun family dentistry practice in Carmel where your kids will be comfortable.
