A Children’s Dentist in Mankato MN and parents of the youngsters team up to make sure kids have excellent oral health throughout their formative years. Parents obviously have a strong influence on their children’s oral hygiene habits. They help the kids establish a routine including brushing, flossing and professional dental care that last a lifetime.
Making Activities Fun
If children aren’t entirely compliant with the routine their parents are encouraging, mothers and fathers can have better success by making the activities more fun. Letting kids choose their own toothbrush is one way to motivate them. They might select a favorite color or a brush designed for children with the shape of an animal at the end. Floss holders help them manage the thread that can be hard to grip with little hands.
Discussing Cosmetic Benefits
Another encouraging aspect might be provided by talking with the child about the cosmetic benefits of oral hygiene. Their teeth will stay white and bright, and they won’t have bad breath. The notion of preventing bad breath can be especially motivating for young kids and teenagers.
Talking With the Dentist
Whenever children don’t want to stick with the program, parents can use a different approach. They might ask their Children’s Dentist in Mankato MN to have a talk with the child about the importance of consistent oral hygiene practices, using language the little one will be able to comprehend. If the child has never had a cavity, no doubt he or she has a friend, sibling, or cousin who has dealt with this situation and reported back on the experience. The dentist can impress upon the patient how brushing and flossing prevent the need for drilling and filling.
Monitoring Oral Health
With a minimum of a yearly appointment at a clinic such as North Mankato Family Dentistry, the child’s oral health can be monitored and any problems addressed as needed. Dental sealants are advisable for youngsters who brush and floss as they should but still develop tooth decay. The dentist will advise the parents when it’s time to think about orthodontic treatment. Request an appointment at the earliest convenience.
