Good oral hygiene begins at a young age. Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic illnesses in young children, yet it is one of the most entirely preventable. Poor oral hygiene often goes hand-in-hand with nutrition deficiencies, lack of socialization, and decreased performance in school. Luckily, parents and guardians can help stimulate and encourage healthy oral and dental habits at home in several ways. Consistency and finding new ways to educate children while making brushing and flossing fun is key. A nutritionally balanced diet that is low in added sugars is also essential- and adults should lead by example! Outside of the home, access to care and regular dental cleanings are necessary for preventative care. Click the link below to learn more about the many ways to keep kids healthy and smiling!
Learn more from Seattle Children's Research CenterThe American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that parents and guardians help children brush their teeth up until the age of nine. This is because children nine and under don't have the hand dexterity to reach and properly brush all of their teeth, especially their back molars. Several dentists highly recommend electric toothbrushes to assist with proper brushing. This is because electric toothbrushes, such as the sonicare, take a lot of the guesswork out of brushing! They can help children brush effectively due to their built-in timers, rotating/pulsating technology, and ease of mobility. Though electric toothbrushes may cost more than manual ones, they are a tremendous value and investment in the oral hygiene of children and adults! Click on the button below to upgrade to an electric toothbrush now!