A new year is on its way! All of us adults have decided to join a gym or eat less chocolate to keep ourselves healthier in the year to come. We tend not to worry about our kids because they’re still ahead of their prime! They have active little bodies, bright white teeth, and lots of time before they have to worry about their health . . . right?
Actually, keeping those baby teeth healthy prevents future dental problems, as well as current ones! According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the baby teeth “help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt.” Beyond that, healthy habits are easiest to start when children are young (especially if they see their parents doing it – hint hint!)
The most obvious habit that you can teach your child about tooth care is to clean their teeth twice a day. Brushing is a task that is easy for even a toddler to remember if it is part of a regular routine. Just remember, re-establishing a routine is harder than maintaining it, so once you have a system in place, keep it going! Being predictable will make it more comfortable for your children, which will always mean less headaches for you!
Another habit, which is not so obvious, is to eat balanced, nutritious meals. Your kids’ teeth are a living part of themselves. They receive nutrients just like every other part of their body – so make sure they are getting what they need!
You probably don’t need to hear the sugar talk, but it has to be said . . . sugar leads to cavities, so keep it to a minimum! Lecture over!
So let’s take a moment to make our parental resolutions for 2013, including a resolution to emphasize to our children the importance of their teeth. Someday you’ll hear your grown children brag about their healthy teeth and you will silently pat yourself on the back!
Special thanks to our blog writer Susan Akers!
