Rewinding the Years: Dental Care Tips for Older Adults

Teaching your toddler about proper oral healthcare at a young age can help to prepare him or her for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. There are many ways you can get your little one excited about caring for his or her teeth. With a little planning, you can create a routine that makes tooth brushing and dental appointments fun. Here are just a few ideas to get your toddler started.

Read About Teeth Together

Visit your local library or bookstore and select a few age-appropriate books about tooth brushing and oral care. If your toddler has a favorite cartoon character, look to see if there is a book featuring the character that discusses oral health routines. Make it a point to read at least one of these books every day, either before your child brushes his or her teeth at night or in the morning. This will help to teach your little one the importance of caring for teeth and gums.

Make Tooth Brushing Musical

Ensuring your child brushes his or her teeth long enough to get them thoroughly clean is important. Consider selecting one of your child's favorite songs, and play the song whenever it's time to brush his or her teeth. Your child should continue brushing until the song is over. You can also play a favorite online video instead of a song if your child loves to watch short online videos.

Plan A Tooth-Friendly Grocery Shopping Trip

Part of caring for your child's teeth is making sure he or she eats a healthy, well-balanced diet. Have your toddler accompany you on a trip to the grocery store, and take time to discuss which foods are good for healthy teeth. Let your child select a few healthy snacks to bring home, and be sure to discuss why sugary foods should be eaten in moderation.

Find A Pediatric Dentist

Pediatric dentists know how to make kids feel comfortable during an appointment. Look for a kid-friendly dentist in your area, and let your little one meet with him or her before a first dental visit. Getting to know the dentist beforehand can help to make your child feel more comfortable, and your toddler may even get excited when visiting the office. The brightly colored furniture, televisions playing cartoons, and the toys in the waiting area can make dental appointments a bit more fun. Be sure to reward your toddler with a small treat if he or she does well at each appointment.

Get your child into a routine of caring for his or her teeth, and reinforce concepts such as daily brushing and healthy eating. By making these concepts fun, you can help to get your little one excited about having a bright, white, and healthy smile. Contact a company like Neu Family Dental Center for more info.