If you are a parent, you have the important and sometimes overwhelming job of teaching your children the skills they will need to succeed in life. The skills you teach them today will hopefully benefit them in the future when they eventually leave the nest. One of the most important things you can teach your children is how to properly care for their dental health. If you help your children understand the importance of practicing good daily oral hygiene and help them to develop these habits when they are young, you will increase their chances of being able to keep their teeth, for life. This will also help them to avoid costly and painful dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss.
You should teach your children to brush their at least two times daily, once when they get up in the morning and then again before they go to bed. They should brush their teach for at least two minutes each time to ensure that all the plaque and food particles are removed from their teeth and gums. Proper brushing technique is also important. Teach your child to brush with circular motions instead of roughly dragging the toothbrush across their gums. This will prevent them from damaging their gums in the process.
You should also teach your children to floss thoroughly at least one time everyday. The best time to do this is at night, before they go to sleep. Studies have shown that flossing your teeth is just as important as brushing them because flossing can get deeper in between the teeth and remove plaque and food particles that cannot be removed with a toothbrush.
Lastly, teach your children the importance of seeing a dentist regularly for routine dental cleanings and examinations. Your child should visit the dentist every six months for a professional dental cleaning and a dental examination. Your dentist may also recommend preventive measures such as fluoride treatments and/or dental sealants to prevent tooth decay.
Taking the time to teach your child about the importance of taking care of their dental health today will benefit them greatly in the future. If your child has not been to see a dentist in more than six months, schedule an appointment today.
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