Rewinding the Years: Dental Care Tips for Older Adults

If you have children, you need to keep on top of their oral hygiene. You might not realize this, but gum disease can affect kids too, especially as they enter puberty. The hormonal changes that are taking place inside your kid's body can create the perfect breeding ground for gum disease and other dental problems. Luckily, there are some things you can do to help keep your kids teeth and gums healthy. Here are three proactive approaches you can take to help your kids steer clear of gum disease.

Begin Early Oral Hygiene Habits

If you're waiting until your kids are older to worry about establishing proper oral hygiene habits, you're waiting too long. The best way to help your kids avoid gum disease is to get them started on good oral hygiene habits while they're young.

Early Cleaning

While your kids are still young, encourage them to brush their teeth at least twice a day. One way to do that is to give your little ones a toothbrush to chew on. This will get them used to the sensation of the toothbrush so it isn't such a chore once they're old enough to brush their teeth.

Dental Visits

Don't wait until your kids have a mouth full of teeth to schedule their first trip to the dentist. Keep track of their dental health by scheduling an appointment as soon as you can see their first tooth.

Know Your Kids' Mouths

Kids aren't always good at telling you when they're having dental issues. That's why it's important for you to get involved.

Sniff for Bad Breath

Tooth decay, and other dental problems can cause bad breath. To catch those problems early, it's a good idea to sniff your kid's breath from time to time. If you smell something rotten, it's time to talk to the dentist.

Look for Warning Signs

Gum disease can come on quick. That's why you need to know the warning signs. Once a month, check your kids' mouths for signs of gum disease, which include:

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Receding gum line
• Pus around the base of the tooth

Make It a Family Affair

Kids learn by example. The best way to get your kids involved in proper oral hygiene habits, is to let them see you doing the same thing.

Brush Teeth Together

To get your kids used to taking care of their teeth, let them see you brushing yours. While your kids are young, let them brush their teeth with you. Not only will you be able to make sure they're brushing their teeth properly, you'll also be able to make sure that they're spending enough time brushing their teeth.

Schedule Family Dental Visits

It's not uncommon for young children to be apprehensive of their dental visits. You can help them overcome that apprehension by scheduling dental visits as a family. Your kids will be able to see you having your teeth cleaned, so it won't be so frightening to them.