Children who attend dental appointments and brush twice daily deal with fewer oral health concerns. At Beaumont Kids Dentistry, we support parents and children on their journey to improving smiles. To avoid cavities, we recommend preventative treatments and limiting sugary foods and drinks.
According to NIH data, nearly 50% of children in the US aren’t getting regular dental care. Insurance and geographic obstacles are often to blame, but without a solution, your child’s smile can suffer.
Beaumont Kids Dentistry, in Lexington, KY, offers an array of services with an extra touch of care and comfort. Going to the dentist as a child can be intimidating, so finding the right environment will help your little one establish healthy hygiene. As a parent, it’s crucial to lay the foundations for healthy habits with kids’ dental routines.
What Are the Best Tips for Kids’ Dental Health?
At Beaumont Kids Dentistry, your child can expect a fun and informative journey with their dental care. Whether you’re seeking routine care or complex services for your child, our Lexington team is equipped to bring back smiles.
To make visits easier and prevent oral discomfort, certain dental care tips will help. Take a look at the most essential kids’ dental recommendations below!
1. Limit Sugary Drinks & Foods
Keeping juice and candy away from kids isn’t always easy (or realistic), but you can limit your child’s intake. Sugary foods and drinks are the most common cause of tooth decay and discomfort.
Having your child brush and floss after a sugary treat can help protect them against decay, without having to completely deny the goodies. CDC data shows that children over the age of two should limit sugars to 10% of their caloric intake for a day. Cutting back on sugary treats and replacing them with natural sugars, like those in fruit, can help with adaptation.
2. Plan Regular Dental Appointments for Your Children
Attending routine dental appointments is essential if you want a smile improvement for your child. Not only do these appointments help establish healthy habits, but they’re also preventative.
Here are a few things to expect during a pediatric dental visit:
- Gentle teeth cleaning & flossing
- X-rays (if needed)
- Flouride application
- Parent advice
Cavities and other dental issues may require additional appointments and care. Take a moment to meet our Beaumont team to get your child prepared!
3. Teach Standard Child Oral Health Rules
To follow pediatric dentistry guidelines, you’ll want to teach your child about the “2-minute rule.” This rule ensures that children spend enough time brushing, without missing the molars or difficult spaces.
Many of our patients improve their brushing when tools are used to keep track of time. Timers, countdowns, and even singing brushes can ensure your child doesn’t neglect their routine.
It’s essential for your child to brush twice a day, and another time if sugary foods or drinks have been consumed. Be sure to monitor younger children brushing with fluoride, as too much can become toxic. A healthy amount, however, can strengthen enamel and brighten smiles.
4. Don’t Be Afraid to Let Your Kids Take Charge
As your child ages, independence with dental care should increase. By modeling and assisting with a consistent dental routine, children can continue healthy teeth habits in life.
Younger kids should always brush with an adult nearby to ensure no teeth go unbrushed. Not only is it good to get a visual, but as your child brushes, you can watch for any signs of sensitivities.
Practicing a dental care routine can have lifelong benefits and continue into older ages. Establishing these habits early on can help your child avoid tooth decay, especially by the time adult teeth appear.
5. Use Protective Equipment During Sports
Many children are getting rid of excess energy and finding new interests in sports. While this can bring thrilling opportunities and challenges, it can also put your child’s oral health at risk.
If your child is in a contact sport or needs additional protection, a custom mouthguard can increase security. According to the AAPD, up to 61% to athletes experience some sort of dental trauma. By taking early precautions, you can ensure your child’s smile shines in Lexington.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When Should Kids Start Seeing a Dentist?
By the time your child’s first birthday comes around, you should be visiting or have already completed a first appointment. Routine visits in childhood are essential as baby teeth come in, fall out, and get replaced with adult teeth. Our team adapts to every age and child’s needs to ensure dental treatment is effective.
Is It Normal for Toddlers & Young Kids to Get Cavities?
Children who neglect brushing and flossing, or don’t do it effectively enough, often get cavities. Genetics, hygiene habits, and diet are the biggest factors that influence oral health.
Which Foods Cause the Most Cavities?
Candy and sodas are known for creating cavities, but other foods that get overlooked can be just as problematic. Refined starches, like bread and pasta, also result in tooth decay because the body breaks them down into sugars. Try to avoid giving crackers and sticky foods to your little ones until they start brushing regulalry.
What Teeth Will My Child Lose First?
The two bottom teeth in the front (lower central incisors) are often the first to go of the baby teeth. Molars tend to come last, but this can vary among children. If your child is complaining of discomfort, try rinsing with warm salt water or using a cold compress.
Build Confidence with Beaumont Kids Dentistry
When dentistry is combined with a Dr. Seuss theme, children can have fun exploring healthy oral habits. By following the kids’ dental tips above, you can get them on a healthy path with fewer cavities.
At Beaumont Kids Dentistry, you can expect innovative treatments to enhance patient comfort. Our fun and engaging office makes routine appointments an exciting process for children. One-on-one care helps us prioritize each child’s needs and check for underlying problems.
Interested in scheduling an appointment with our compassionate team in Lexington? Contact Beaumont Kids Dentistry today by calling (859) 223-4888 or reaching out online!