5 Common Mistakes Parents Make With Their Kids’ Teeth
A child’s smile and overall oral health are key parts of their overall well-being. However, even the most dutiful parents can make mistakes when it comes to their kid’s dental care. Here are the five most common children’s dental care mistakes for parents to avoid.
Not Supervising Proper Oral Care Habits
It’s easy for children to view brushing their teeth as a chore rather than an essential part of their daily routine. Parents must supervise their children’s oral care until they are 7 or 8 years old, ensuring that they brush properly for two minutes. Purchase child-friendly toothpaste with fluoride for optimal oral care. You should also teach your children how to floss correctly and regularly. Use floss sticks if your kids have trouble reaching the corners of their mouths with traditional floss. Make daily brushing and flossing fun with tunes or a rewards system.
Overlooking Sugary Food/Drink Consumption
While the occasional sweet treat is mostly harmless, frequent consumption of sugary foods and drinks can lead to cavities and erode the tooth enamel. Encourage your children to enjoy sweet snacks and beverages in moderation. This promotes good dental health and a healthy diet. After eating sweet or sticky foods, have children drink water or brush their teeth to wash away any residual sugar and plaque.
Ignoring Thumb-Sucking Habits
It’s completely natural for infants and toddlers to soothe themselves by sucking their thumbs or using a pacifier. However, if the habit persists past the age range of 4 to 6, it can start to impact the development of their teeth and jawline, potentially leading to orthodontic issues. When a child’s adult teeth start to come in, they should avoid sucking their thumb to prevent improper alignment. Gently discourage this habit and offer praise for every step in the right direction.
Not Scheduling Regular Dental Appointments
Many parents only consider visiting the dentist when a problem arises. This reactive approach can result in not catching dental issues early, leading to potentially more invasive treatments. Regular dental check-ups allow professionals to monitor teeth growth and development, catch cavities before they become painful, and provide essential education and preventive care. Make these visits a priority by setting them up as biannual check-ups for the entire family.
Not Addressing Dental Anxiety
Dental anxiety is common in children and can lead to a lifetime of dental fear if you don’t properly address it. Create positive associations with dental visits by explaining what will happen in a calm and normal tone. You can practice a pretend dentist visit at home to familiarize your child with the process. If this doesn’t help, consult your dentist about more specific strategies or even consider therapy to address and manage these fears.
Early dental health requires vigilance and proactive care. By avoiding these common mistakes parents make when it comes to their children’s dental health, parents can set their children up for healthy and happy smiles. Every step you take toward a proper dental routine is an investment in your child’s future well-being. If you’re looking for children’s dentistry in the Houston area, you can find them here at Gentle Dental Care. Browse our website today to learn more about our quality pediatric dentistry services and care for the whole family.
