{"id":335,"date":"2016-08-03T16:58:05","date_gmt":"2016-08-03T21:58:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.dentistryforkids.info\/?p=335"},"modified":"2024-11-27T16:56:49","modified_gmt":"2024-11-27T16:56:49","slug":"5-ways-to-keep-your-childs-teeth-healthy","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dentistryforkids.info\/blog\/2016\/08\/5-ways-to-keep-your-childs-teeth-healthy\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Ways to Keep Your Child\u2019s Teeth Healthy"},"content":{"rendered":"

The best way to ensure your child has healthy teeth is to start oral health care early.  Starting good dental habits early can help prevent tooth decay which can lead to cavities and other oral diseases. Incorporate these tips into your child\u2019s life and he or she will have healthy and a happy smile.<\/span><\/p>\n

Get a Check-up By Their First Birthday<\/h2>\n

The AAPD recommends that children should see the dentist by their first birthday. Bringing your child to the dentist at such a young age is the best way to prevent tooth decay. This appointment can help parents learn how to clean their child\u2019s teeth and other oral health tips. Taking your child to the dentist at such a young age can help them get acclimated to the dentist\u2019s office, which can help reduce anxiety or any fear they might have in the future.<\/span><\/p>\n

Establish a Brushing and Flossing Routine<\/h2>\n

Creating a brushing and flossing routine for your child can help them instill it as a habit. Every morning after breakfast and every night before bed, brush your teeth with your child. With a routine in place every night, it won\u2019t take long for your child to have natural instinct to brush his or her teeth.<\/span><\/p>\n

There are many ways you can make brushing teeth fun instead of treating it like a chore. Singing songs, a tooth brushing chart, and mentioning the tooth fairy are all fun ways you can help your child look forward to brushing their teeth.<\/span><\/p>\n

Opt for Real Fruit, Instead of Sticky Fruit Snacks<\/h2>\n

If you\u2019ve been under the impression that gummy or sticky fruit snacks are healthy alternatives , you’re not alone.  Many parents are surprised to learn they are really closer to candy than fruit, especially when it comes to sugar.  Fruit roll-ups and other dried fruit snacks are like nature\u2019s candy, but in some respects it\u2019s worse than candy because it <\/span>sticks to teeth longer<\/span><\/a> than things like milk chocolate, which is easier to wash away. Even foods like raisins, which are often promoted as an all-natural snack option, can be troublesome. Try to stick to real fruit such as strawberries, apples, and oranges to help keep your child\u2019s teeth healthy.<\/span><\/p>\n

Get Rid of the Pacifier by Age 3<\/h2>\n

Sucking is a natural reflex for babies, and does not cause harm during the first few years of his or her life. However, sucking can become a problem as your child\u2019s jaw and teeth begin to develop. Continual sucking can cause several long-term effects on your child\u2019s mouth including the following:<\/span><\/p>\n