February is Children’s Dental Health Month, so take some extra time this month to talk with your child about the importance of dental health. Tiny habits make big, bright smiles. Good dental care is vital for a child’s health and well-being. Left unchecked, tooth decay can have adverse effects on a child’s ability to speak clearly and eat properly as well as pay attention and learn.
Use warm water and a washcloth or gauze to clean your infant’s gums, which will help develop healthy baby teeth. When the first teeth appear, use a soft baby toothbrush with a pea-sized amount of children’s fluoride toothpaste to clean their teeth and gums. As they get older, help them learn how to brush their teeth and talk to them about why it is important to brush twice a day.
Provide water over sugary drinks.
Make and keep regular dental check-ups, starting within a few months of when their first teeth emerge. Then, maintain and model a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, limiting sugary snacks and beverages.
Healthy teeth and gums will hel your child speak, eat and focus on their lessons. Schedule regular checkups and make dental care a family routine. A healthy smile is a vital part of school readiness.
For more information on dental health, visit the Florida Health website.
