Our Top 10 Smile Tips for Good Oral Hygiene Habits

Building a foundation of good oral hygiene habits is the first step in ensuring your child enjoys a lifetime of happy, healthy smiles. But as every parent knows, creating healthy habits for strong teeth is easier said than done!

By establishing good habits early on, our little ones can avoid many dental problems as they become big kids (and eventually adults). To help you on your own at-home smile adventure, we’ve put together our top 10 priorities for building healthy oral hygiene habits with your child! 

Brushing Twice a Day

Everyone should brush at least twice a day, and this habit can be the most challenging to build with your child. However, it’s also one of the most important things to focus on when building better oral hygiene habits.

To help your little one remember to brush every morning and before they go to bed, there are a few things that you can do. Create a calendar (with super-fun stickers!) to celebrate good toothbrushing days. You can even reward them with more TV time, a fun snack, a sleepover, or another awesome activity! 

There are even more ways to make brushing and flossing more fun:

• Brushing alongside your child.
• Letting your kid pick from a “gallery” of different toothbrushes.
• Brushing to a song or with a favorite toy. 

Regular Dental Checkups

Taking your child to the dentist for regular checkups is essential for maintaining good dental health. Dentists help detect potential issues early on, provide professional cleanings, and offer guidance on proper oral care techniques. 

Early visits to your favorite local dental office will help show your child that the dentist doesn’t have to be scary. Check out our blog on how to make their first visit a blast!

Daily Flossing

Daily flossing helps remove food particles and plaque between the teeth – the little nooks and crannies your toothbrush can’t reach. Teach your child to floss gently and thoroughly every day. 

Conquering this hygiene habit is a big win – most adults only floss once a week (or less), leading to a seriously increased risk of cavities and sore gums!

(Not sure about the best way to floss? Check out this super guide to flossing for kids!)

Eating Healthy Foods

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products can promote good oral health by providing essential nutrients for strong teeth and gums. Encourage your child to choose healthy snacks over sugary treats. We love celery, carrots, apple slices, and cheese sticks!

Limiting Sugary Foods and Beverages

Speaking of sugary treats: super-sweet foods and beverages can contribute to tooth decay by fueling the bacteria in your mouth. Limit your child’s consumption of these items and encourage them to drink water instead of soda or juice.

Using Fluoride Toothpaste

Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay. Choosing fluoride toothpaste is the best route for building strong, healthy teeth! Look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance when picking out your child’s next tube of toothpaste at the store.

Proper Brushing Technique

Brush routinely isn’t enough to keep the sugar bugs away. How your child brushes their teeth is also essential. Teach your child to brush using small, circular motions, focusing on all surfaces of each tooth. They should spend at least two minutes brushing (morning and night!) to remove all the pesky plaque, food particles, and bad bacteria! 

And remember to use a soft-bristled toothbrush that is the right size for your little one.

Replacing Toothbrushes Regularly

Toothbrushes should be replaced every three to four months or as soon as the bristles become frayed. A worn-out toothbrush is less effective at cleaning teeth (and can harbor bacteria even after it’s been rinsed).

Wearing a Mouthguard During Sports

If your child participates in sports or other physical activities, they should wear a mouthguard to protect their teeth from injury! Chips, cracks, and knocked-out teeth are no fun, and a mouthguard can prevent the worst dental emergencies.

Encouraging a Positive Attitude Towards Dental Care

One of our biggest tips is this: keep it fun and fresh! Many people struggle to brush enough or go to the dentist because they have a bad relationship with dental care and healthy habits. As a parent, you can ensure that your child enjoys caring for their teeth from day one!

Help your child develop a positive attitude towards dental care by making it fun and rewarding. Use a timer or a fun song to encourage proper brushing time, and consider offering small incentives for consistent good oral hygiene habits. Make the dentist something to look forward to by rewarding them for an A+ on their “tooth report card” or taking them out to the park after their appointment.

Following these tips and fostering good oral hygiene habits early on can help set your child up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Remember to be patient and consistent, and always lead by example to show your child the importance of caring for their smile!

Ready to start your child’s big smile adventure with the pros? Schedule your first appointment with Dr. Cat in Cullman, AL! Fill out our contact form to visit S’more Smiles, or check out our website to learn more about the best pediatric dentist in town.