Prevention is the most important part of keeping smiles healthy and maintaining good oral health. Prevention is also an essential part of protecting children’s smiles. Prevention includes teaching children a good oral hygiene routine that includes at home technique and regular visits to the dentist. There are also preventative options like dental sealants and fluoride treatments that can help to protect children’s smiles. Kids can learn good habits, too, especially when it comes to drinking plenty of water and making healthy snack choices.

Strong Oral Hygiene Routine

Brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day is important for everybody’s smile health. For children, it may be important for you to monitor their brushing and flossing until you are sure that they can effectively keep their mouth clean. Brushing should last at least two minutes per session and cover every surface of every tooth. Children’s toothbrushes and floss in fun colors or with fun characters can be great ways to encourage fun hygiene sessions. Regular checkups and cleanings with the dentist should happen at least twice a year. Maintaining regular appointments can create a good relationship between the dentist and your child.

Sealants and Fluoride Treatments

The dentist can offer preventative treatments like sealants and fluoride treatments. Dental sealants are  thin, protective plastic coats applied directly to the surface of clean teeth. The sealants can help prevent bacteria, plaque, and tartar from causing tooth decay and cavities. Dental sealants do not give kids an all-out candy pass, but they can be a line of defense against bad habits that children may have. Fluoride treatments are also applied directly to clean teeth in an effort to re-mineralize and strengthen the enamel of the teeth to help protect teeth against decay and damage.

Drinking Water and Mindful Eating

Drinking enough water keeps the body hydrated and the mouth rinsed of harmful bacteria or remains of food or drink.. When it comes to sweet treats, balance is important. Whole fruit and veggies are full of fiber and can help teeth stay healthy.

Kids’ smiles can be protected with daily attention