Many people make New Year’s resolutions as a way to improve themselves. Whether the goal is to lose weight, exercise more, or eat healthier foods, the hope is to improve your health and happiness.
When it comes to your child’s oral health, helping them maintain a healthy and happy smile is also essential during the new year. So, keep reading to learn more about helping your child maintain a healthy smile in Palos Heights and the surrounding area.
7 Tips for Maintaining Happy and Healthy Smiles
At Palos Pediatric Dentistry, we believe in combining in-office and at-home preventive care to help your child maintain the best oral health possible. Here is how you can help your child keep their smile healthy and happy:
- Help them brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes, preferably with an electric toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes have been shown to clean teeth more effectively, and your child will enjoy brushing more.
- Help them floss their teeth once a day with dental floss or floss picks to remove plaque buildup between their teeth.
- Limit their sugary snacks and drinks to avoid tooth decay. Sugar turns to acid in your child’s mouth, which can erode their tooth enamel.
- Encourage them to drink more water to stimulate saliva production and keep their mouth clean.
- Talk to them about using their teeth for chewing only, not to open packages. This will help them avoid tooth damage.
- Discourage them from biting their nails, sucking their thumb, or sucking on their fingers. These habits can change the shape of their mouths and cause their teeth to become misaligned.
- Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings for them every six months. This will keep their teeth free from plaque and tartar and allow us to identify any dental concerns before they worsen.
Do You Have Questions about Your Child’s Oral Health in Palos Heights, IL?
If you live in Palos Heights or the surrounding area, the expert dental team at Palos Pediatric Dentistry wants to help your child achieve the best oral health possible. You can reach our dental office by calling (708) 263-6708 if you have questions or concerns.
We look forward to hearing from you!
