Oral health problems don’t only occur in adults but also in children. The most common type of oral health problem is cavities, or dental cavities, which are characterized by tooth decay caused by bacteria.
Between 2015 and 2016, this oral health problem affected about 46% of young people aged 2 to 19. 13% of this population had dental cavities, which were untreated. The good news is you can reduce the risk of oral health problems in young children by teaching them good oral hygiene habits while they’re still young.
What Important Oral Hygiene Habits Can You Teach Children?
There are many important habits to teach young children when it comes to maintaining good oral hygiene. The most important one is teaching them to brush their teeth regularly until it becomes a habit. You should also teach them to limit their intake of sugary foods. As your dental professional will tell you, eating too much sugar is a leading cause of tooth decay, and can also cause other common health problems.
Is It Easy to Teach Young Children Good Oral Hygiene Habits?
It’s not always easy for a person to form new habits. Fortunately, children are quite impressionable, and by the time they learn to walk, you will find they have grown very independent. That means they will want to do everything on their own, which presents you with the perfect opportunity to teach them how to brush their teeth. You should also teach children the importance of regular flossing.
Tips and Tricks for Developing Good Dental Habits in Children
Fortunately, there are many tips and tricks you can take advantage of to ensure your children develop dental habits that stick. Other than taking them to the local dentist for a checkup at least twice a year, you can also ensure they have a favorite toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush that’s comfortable to use.
You can also brush your teeth with them, so they can watch you and learn your oral hygiene routine. Teaching them while they are still young can go a long way towards instilling good habits and preventing oral health problems in children and adults.
Contact Sninski & Schmitt for Family Dental Care
If you need more information, please get in touch. We would be happy to help you instill good dental habits in your little ones. You can reach us at our Holly Springs dentist office at (919) 600-6262 and our Cary, NC dentist office at (919) 467-2203. You can also use our online form to schedule an appointment.