Oral hygiene is a skill that everyone needs to learn. Whether you are 6 or 60, caring for your mouth lessens your risk of heart disease, decay, and other serious problems. While finding the right family dentistry in Peachtree City is important, there is a lot that can be done at home to ensure that the entire family is caring for their teeth correctly. - Start young. It’s estimated that one in four children will develop the signs of tooth decay before they even start kindergarten. To prevent cavities and other tooth-related issues, begin dental care as soon as a tooth appears in your child’s mouth. While you may not be able to brush your child’s teeth, wipe them clean with a damp cloth.
- Opt for sealants. Once permanent molars begin to appear—usually around the age of 6—talk to your dentist about applying a protective coating to the back teeth. This seals the pits and cracks in the molars that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush and reduces decay.
- Fluoride is important. While you don’t want to have too much of it, fluoride is important. It helps to strengthen the enamel of your teeth, which makes them less likely to develop cavities. Many toothpastes and mouthwashes contain fluoride. It should be used sparingly in children, though, so ask your dentist about the best way to ensure your children’s teeth are getting the fluoride they need.
- Change toothbrushes regularly. Experts recommend swapping your toothbrush for a new one 3 to 4 times a year. This keeps the bristles from becoming so bent that they can’t clean your teeth properly. Make it a fun family affair where everyone can choose a toothbrush that they love. Starting these habits young ensures that your kids have healthy teeth for a lifetime.
- Floss, floss, floss. While brushing your teeth twice a day is important, flossing is often overlooked. When you forget to floss, you miss cleaning around 30% of your teeth’s surface. These are often the areas most prone to decay. Show your children how important it is to floss by doing it yourself.
Caring for your teeth regularly reduces the number of times you have to visit your family dentistry in Peachtree City. While it’s important to get checkups every 6 months from your dentist, follow these important steps to ensure that you aren’t in their office more than is necessary.
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