As a parent, you want your child to develop healthy dental habits from an early age. One of the ways you can do that is by setting goals together with your child. We wanted to share oral health goals you can do. It’s a fantastic way of making dental care fun and something you enjoy together. Plus, both you and your child’s smile will benefit!

  1. Brush Twice A Day for 2 Minutes

Brushing twice a day for 2 minutes removes plaque and bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. Make it more fun by letting kids pick out their favorite toothbrush and toothpaste flavors. Play a 2-minute song while they brush to help them brush thoroughly. You can even brush alongside them to set a good example. Reward them with a sticker chart for each day they meet their brushing goal. 

  1. Floss Every Night Before Bed

Flossing removes plaque and food particles that brushing misses, so it’s key for clean and healthy teeth and gums. Have kids floss with one of the many kid-friendly floss options, like floss picks. Challenge them to floss every tooth and give high-fives when they finish! Make a contest out of it by timing your flossing speed each night and trying to beat your record.

  1. Drink More Water, Less Sugary Drinks

Sugary and acidic drinks erode tooth enamel, causing cavities. Encourage your child to sip water and limit their consumption of sugary drinks. Make it exciting by letting them pick out a fun water bottle they can decorate with stickers. You can also freeze ice cubes with berries inside to add flavor and color to their water. It’s a fantastic way to make it more fun!

  1. Eat Crunchy Fruits and Veggies

Chewing crunchy fruits and veggies like apples, carrots, and celery helps clean teeth and strengthens enamel. Involve kids by taking them grocery shopping and letting them pick out their own crunchy produce. You may also consider visiting local farms where you can pick your own produce. It’s a great way to teach your child about seasonal produce and their health benefits.

  1. Visit the Dentist Regularly

Seeing the dentist for routine cleanings and exams prevents small issues from becoming big problems. Ease any anxieties by having your child pretend to be the dentist on one of their stuffed animals. Talk through what happens at each appointment and the special tools the dentist may use. Make sure you use friendly language and avoid scary words. Provide positive reinforcement by doing something fun after each dentist visit.

Instilling excellent dental care habits in children takes patience and creativity. But by making oral health fun and engaging, you set them up for a sparkling, healthy smile that will last a lifetime. We hope a few of these oral health goals will help you and your child stay on track all year long. Remember, one of the best ways to encourage your child is by being a good example yourself. So, ensure you actively participate in the goals you set with them.

To visit Sprout and Bloom Pediatric Dentistry in Littleton, CO, call us today at 720-615-6087 to schedule an appointment or schedule one online.