If you want to know how to protect your child’s teeth and develop the best oral hygiene habits, there are some steps you can take at home. However, you also need a dentist who specializes in pediatric dentistry in Raleigh, NC, who offers professional services that will ensure your child’s optimal oral health. A dentist who offers these services can educate you on how to keep your child’s teeth healthy at home between visits and address any issues as they arise.
Pediatric Dentistry in Raleigh, NC: How to Protect Your Child’s Teeth Between Dental Visits
Encourage Proper Dental Hygiene Habits
Healthy oral hygiene habits start at home. It’s important that, as a parent, you teach your child the importance of brushing their teeth at least twice a day and flossing once a day. Depending on your child’s age, you may need to brush and floss for them until they have the motor skills to take it on themselves.
Supervision may also be required for young children to ensure that they’re not rushing through these important steps just to get them crossed off a list. When you help develop these healthy habits in your children at a young age, you’ll set them up for optimal long-term oral health.
Eat a Healthy Diet
Diet plays an important role in a child’s overall oral health. The foods that you give your child to eat will either promote or detract from their oral health. The best foods to implement into their diet include healthy fats, like avocado and coconut oils and butter from grass-fed animals; good protein, ideally from grass-fed or pastured animal sources; vegetables, and some fruit.
Avoid Foods and Beverages That Contribute to Tooth Decay
Not only is it important that you provide your child with the most nutritious foods to ensure optimal oral health, but you must also avoid the ones that don’t support tooth and gum health.
Foods high in sugars will feed bacteria in the mouth and increase the risk of your child developing cavities. Limiting sugar and foods like hard, sticky candies and sweetened sodas will prevent bacteria growth in the mouth and reduce and prevent issues. They should avoid grains (especially any refined or bleached grains), processed food, and seed or vegetable oils.
Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings and Examinations
Once you’ve done everything you can at home to help your child develop healthy oral hygiene habits and keep their teeth and gums as strong and healthy as possible, scheduling regular cleanings and exams will make all the difference.
The dentist will evaluate their teeth and gum health, identify any potential issues when they arise, and create a personalized treatment plan that’s both preventative and prescriptive. These regular appointments will make you feel more confident about your child’s oral health long-term.
If you’re looking for a pediatric dentist who can meet your needs and provide you and your family with everything you need to ensure you’re doing everything possible to keep your child’s teeth healthy as they grow and develop, we can help. Contact us today at the office of Rebecca E. Reeves, DMD, PA in Raleigh, NC, to learn more about our services and schedule your next visit.