Article at a Glance
- February is Children’s Dental Health Month and there are a lot of ways to celebrate while educating your kids on good oral care.
- Be sure to model good habits for your kids.
- Make teeth brushing fun for your kids to encourage them to stick with it!
February is Children’s Dental Health Month and it’s a great time to brush up on good dental hygiene for kids. Many kids need a little extra encouragement to handle personal care and develop good habits as they grow.
The Importance of Children’s Dental Health Month
Dental hygiene for kids is not just a concern for dentists. Good oral health is part of keeping kids happy and healthy. This month is the perfect opportunity for health professionals, educators, caregivers, and parents to teach children the importance of good dental care. Colorful posters, fun activities, and printable activities are a wonderful way to get your kids in on the fun for this year’s campaign.
Quick Reminders About Children’s Dental Care
Teeth brushing is probably so automatic as an adult that you forget how many steps are truly involved. Teaching your kids to develop good oral care habits means breaking things down into age appropriate steps they can follow. While you’re at it, keep these quick tips in mind to make your life easier.
- Model good behavior and support your kids as they learn how to care for their own teeth.
- Make dental care into a family affair. From family appointments to brushing and flossing together at night, you’ll spend quality time together while teaching good habits.
- What you eat matters and while kids may appreciate sweets, their teeth won’t. Educate your family on the effects of sugary foods and drinks on their teeth.
- Don’t forget to floss! Teach your kids to floss at least once a day.
Fun Dental Tips to Make Teeth Brushing Fun
Educating kids on the importance of good oral care is only part of imparting good lifelong habits. Kids are more apt to keep up with brushing their teeth infuse a little fun. Sometimes it’s easy to forget the fun when you’re tired or rushing, but don’t skip the opportunity for a laugh because it will help. If your kids are having a tough time finding the joy in dental care, try some of these tips.
- Make a big deal about picking out their own toothbrush and toothpaste. If kids are excited about a specific character or prefer a certain flavor, they’ll be more likely to stay on track.
- Seek out books and videos that discuss dental care in fun, age appropriate ways.
- Play favorite songs to help ensure your kiddo is brushing for the full two minutes.
- Goal charts help kids track their progress while developing good habits.
- Try rewards to encourage kids to reach goals and stick to their routines. Skip the sugary rewards and opt for toys or a trip to the movies.
- If you really want to drive the point home, these dentist games may give your kids the urge to brush more regularly.
If your child is due for a check-up and cleaning, contact the kind professionals at Jefferson Dental Care to make an appointment today.
Sources:
https://familydoctor.org/dental-hygiene-how-to-care-for-your-childs-teeth/
https://www.ada.org/en/public-programs/national-childrens-dental-health-month
http://www.agame.com/games/dentist-games
https://www.perfectteeth.com/blog/9-tips-keep-kids-teeth-healthy/
