5 PEDIATRIC DENTIST TIPS FOR GOOD ORAL HEALTH

Pediatric Dentist in Riverside

At Dental Care of Riverside, children of all ages are welcome through our doors. Our pediatric dentist, Dr. Achana Sheth, has specialized training and loves to teach kids the importance of good dental health. The earlier your children learn good oral hygiene habits, the better their health for the future.  Having good oral hygiene is critical to your child’s teeth and overall health. Children need healthy teeth to speak correctly, eat, and smile comfortably. Dr. Sheth, your pediatric dentist in Riverside, recommends starting good oral hygiene habits as early as possible.  So, how exactly do you teach children the importance of caring for their teeth? Below are some simple tips to get your kids off to the best start.

#1 Supervise Your Kids

The younger the child is, the more supervision they will need. You must ensure they’re not only brushing their teeth twice a day but doing it correctly. Observe them while they brush, give them positive feedback, and assist them when they need help to clean missed spots and hard-to-reach areas. Many parents choose the picks when it comes to flossing, as they are much easier for tiny hands. Be sure to help your children floss the hard-to-reach areas until they grow more comfortable doing it themselves.

#2 Keep a Routine

It feels natural when we make oral hygiene a part of our morning or bedtime routine. Have your kids brush their teeth at the same time each day. For example, cleaning their teeth can be the first thing they do after putting on their pajamas at night, or it could be the last thing they do before heading out the door in the morning. We know life is busy with children, but this is one health routine that you should never skip!

#3 Provide Healthy Food 

Allowing children unlimited amounts of sweets, juices, or other junk food does not result in healthy smiles. Your child’s diet is maybe the most essential element to their oral health. Children who eat highly processed foods laden with salt and sugar when they are young tend to crave these foods in adulthood.  Instead, choose child-friendly healthy snacks, like fruit, cheese, nuts, hard-boiled eggs, and yogurt. Candy and sweets are not off the table completely. They are great for special occasions and holidays, but always in moderation. 

#4 You are the Best Example

Every child carefully watches their parents and copies everything they do. The best way to show the importance of good oral health is for you, the parent, to look out for your own teeth. Let your children observe you brushing, flossing, and making healthy dietary choices. Your children are sure to follow suit.

#5 Biannual Checkups

Infants, children, and teens should visit their dentist’s practice once every six months for prevention. This checkup is critical to catch problems before they start.  We know many young patients are nervous about visiting the dentist. Everyone at Dental Care of Riverside loves caring for your children. We take extra time to ensure that our youngest patients feel comfortable and at ease. 

Visit Your Pediatric Dentist in Riverside, California

Please schedule your next dental visit at our pediatric dental office in Riverside, CA. We hope that our pediatric dentistry practice will be your infant’s and children’s new dental home.