Doing it for the kids – children’s dentistry at Brightside
February plays host to a vital moment in the dental calendar: Children’s Dental Health Month.
Dental health is important no matter what age you are, but getting kids started early can help prevent cavities, build good habits and help keep smiles healthy for life.
Children should start visiting the dentist from the moment their first tooth appears or by age two (whichever comes first), and once they do, it’s the start of a long and significant journey.
Why healthy teeth matter (and what to tell your kids)
If you’re reading this, you probably don’t need convincing of the importance of healthy teeth. Your five-year-old? That might be a different story.
Educating kids on just how big a role their teeth will play in their lives is a vital first step, so in case you need a cheat sheet when you’re trying to convince them to brush properly, here goes:
Healthy teeth help children:
· Eat and chew properly, making it easier to enjoy a healthy, balanced diet
· Speak clearly, supporting proper speech development
· Feel confident when they smile, which helps with self-esteem and social skills
· Stay healthy overall, as dental problems can affect the rest of the body
Some tips to make brushing fun
Turning brushing into a fun routine can make a big difference in getting buy-in. Here are some of the things we’ve learnt over the years:
· Let kids pick their own toothbrush, especially ones with fun colours or characters
· Play a two-minute song to help them brush for the right amount of time
· Brush together as a family so children can copy good habits
· Use a sticker or reward chart to celebrate consistency
· Use kid-friendly dental apps that use games, music, or timers to make brushing fun
Don’t skip dental checkups…
Regular dental visits are important for keeping little smiles healthy, and they allow the dentist to:
· Find cavities early, before they become painful or serious
· Watch teeth and jaw growth as your child develops
· Protect teeth with treatments like fluoride or sealants
· Teach kids proper brushing and flossing techniques in a positive way
If your child is due for a dental check-up or their first trip to the dentist, you can book it here – https://onlineappointment.carestack.uk/?dn=brightside&ln=1#/home.
And if you’ve got any questions about any element of your child’s dental health, please feel free to reach out and we’ll be happy to help.
Ketan
