How a Pediatric Dentist Can Help Instill Good Habits in Kids

Posted on December 18, 2023

You want your kids to grow up with bright, healthy smiles. As a parent, you know that starts with good oral hygiene habits from a young age. According to Aqua Fresh, a child should prioritize brushing their teeth for two full minutes. However, toddlers and young children often find brushing to be a chore. Luckily, your local pediatric dentist, also known as a dentist for kids, can offer lots of helpful guidance, tips, and encouragement to get your little ones on track to a lifetime of good dental care.

Make Brushing Fun

As soon as your baby’s first teeth come in, your dentist for kids will recommend starting a simple brushing routine. But turning it into a fun bonding activity for you and your child will make it seem far less tedious. Your dentist may suggest setting a silly two-minute timer and even letting your toddler hold and play with the toothbrush themselves under your supervision.

Lead by Example

Like any good habit you want your kids to pick up, you need to lead by example when it comes to oral care. Allow your children to watch you brushing your own teeth in the morning and evening. Show them your own timer app if necessary and even examine your teeth in the mirror together afterwards. Kids are much more likely to develop good long-term habits if they see their parents also following a consistent routine and prioritizing dental health.

Get Regular Check-Ups

While you help your child brush properly at home, twice-yearly checkups with your pediatric dentistry specialist are also crucial to making sure their teeth stay healthy and cavity-free. By about age one, your dentist will want to carefully examine new teeth just erupting and keep a close eye on your child’s oral development. Regular cleanings and screenings to monitor for tooth decay risks allow the dentist to reinforce good brushing habits.

Starting good dental care early on is so important for your little one’s lifelong oral and overall wellness. With some patience and positivity from you as well as monitoring and tips from your pediatric dentistry office, tooth brushing doesn’t have to feel like a daily battle. Before you know it, your children will be in the habit of brushing properly without reminders or rewards. If you’re looking for a dentist for kids, we’re currently accepting new patients. Call to schedule an appointment with a kids dentist in Plantation or a kids dentist in Pembroke Pines today.