Did you know that a whopping 90% of Americans have had at least one cavity by their 21st birthday? Unfortunately, the staggering statistics don’t stop there. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 20% of children between 5 and 11 and 13% between 12 and 19 have at least one untreated decayed tooth! So, it is safe to say our children’s dental hygiene could use an upgrade. However, many parents have trouble when it comes to getting their little ones to take their brushing and flossing routine seriously. If you are having the same struggle in your household, read on for three ways to introduce the importance of oral health for kids.
#1. Use Books
For kids, the concept of going to the dentist or losing a tooth can be confusing and scary. Since you want them to have a healthy outlook on taking care of their teeth, it can be advantageous to have a children’s book explain it! By purchasing a book that depicts their favorite character learning to brush their teeth or meeting the dentist, it can give your child some insight into what to expect. It can also help them be brave if they start to feel scared or anxious about their visit.
#2. Play Games That Make Dental Care Fun
As an adult, your oral hygiene regimen is typically completed in silence and without much thought. Although this is convenient amid the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it can be boring for your child. So, try introducing them to the concept of oral health by making it fun! You can play their favorite song while they brush for two minutes, keep track of their habits with a visual chart, or incorporate your child’s interests to make their brushing and flossing routine something they look forward to!
#3. Get Crafty with a Science Experiment
If your child loves crafts and experiments, then this one is for you! To help your child visualize how stains and cavities form, grab three boiled eggs, water, root beer, and coffee. Next, separate the eggs into three small containers and cover each of them with one of the beverages. After letting them soak overnight, let your child remove them from each liquid and share with you their findings!
To protect your favorite smile, it is important to introduce the concept of oral health early on. Fortunately, the above three ideas can help get your child excited about the idea of taking care of their teeth!
About the Practice
Led by Dr. Ahir, each member of Prime Dentistry is united by their mission to deliver high-quality dentistry in a comfortable atmosphere. By offering evening and weekend availability, modern dental technology, and a comprehensive array of services, patients can genuinely look forward to their visits while keeping their oral care in pristine condition! If your child is overdue for their bi-yearly visit, don’t hesitate to visit Prime Dentistry’s website or give them a call at 940-514-0333.
