In February, most of us tend to focus on Valentine’s Day! I love February, however, because it is Children’s Dental Health Month and it allows me to focus on some of my favorite patients – kids! It also gives me a chance to share some ideas with parents on how to make learning about the importance of oral health fun for their kids. So here are some of my favorite ideas in honor of Children’s Dental Health Month.

Buy Some New Toothbrushes Together

There are so many fun and colorful dental products on the market for children these days! Get your child excited about brushing their teeth by letting them pick a toothbrush in their favorite color or with the character they love on it. You should be changing your toothbrushes out every 3 to 4 months. And change them right away if someone has been sick.

Your child might like an electric toothbrush if they don’t already have one, and you will enjoy the benefits of a timer and a brush doing the hard work for them.

Make a Tracking Chart

Motivate your child to brush twice a day and floss once with a tracking chart. Decorate it in fun colors, use stickers for daily tracking, and help them set their goals.

For example, if they complete a week of exceptional brushing and flossing each day, they can earn a small reward like ice cream with mom, or a piece of sugar free gum.

Don’t Forget to Visit Your Dentist

As your family dentist, your child should visit me every six months just like you do. This gives us a chance to review their oral development and discuss any concerns you might have about your little one’s oral health.

I may recommend some additional treatment for them as they get older such as dental sealants and fluoride treatment. Fluoride helps to build and strengthen your little one’s developing teeth, while dental sealants protect them from decay and cavities.

If it’s time for your child’s next dental visit, give my office a call today to schedule their next appointment.