Prevent Dental ProblemsAs a parent you probably already do a lot to help keep your kids healthy. You might insist they spend some time playing outside, wash their hands before supper, and fill their plates with items other than fried foods and starches. But do you sometimes worry you are not doing enough to help keep their smiles healthy? It can be difficult to help kids prevent cavities and other dental problems, but it’s not impossible, especially when you enlist the help of your children’s dentist.

Preventive Care Includes Hygiene and Diet

Preventing cavities and other dental problems begins with great choices at-home. That includes insisting your kids brush their teeth at least twice a day, and floss their teeth once each day. Keep in mind that young children will need assistance brushing and flossing, generally until they are able to tie their own shoes.

Teaching your kids about proper nutrition is also essential to helping them maintain healthy bodies and smiles. A diet filled with plenty of fruits and vegetables, and with limited sugar, is best for the teeth and gums, as well as the rest of the body.

Regular Checkups Are Necessary for Great Smiles

Though some people believe dental appointments are only necessary when someone is experiencing a dental problem, regular preventive checkups are actually essential to keeping the teeth and gums healthy and cavity-free.

Around the age of one a child should have his or her first dental appointment. From then on, appointments should be scheduled approximately once every six months. During this checkup the dentist can check for potential problems, remove tartar buildup, and he or she may also suggest application of a dental sealant, like fluoride, to help further protect the teeth.