How Family Dentists Instill Good Dental Habits in Children
You want your kids to have healthy, happy smiles that will last them a lifetime. As a parent, one of the best things you can do is take them to a dentist specializing in family dental Las Vegas residents know and trust. Family dentists play a huge role in teaching little ones good oral care habits. Read on to learn their top tips and tricks.
Make Their First Visit Fun
The first trip to a family dentist in Las Vegas can set the tone for a child’s lifelong attitude toward oral health care. The best family dentists make that initial visit fun, engaging, and interactive. For example, they may let kids sit in their parent’s lap in the exam chair or have cool toys and prizes in the waiting area. Some even give first-timers a special certificate or sticker. These small gestures go a long way toward making the visit positive rather than scary. Kids who enjoy themselves are more likely to keep up good habits at home.
Lead by Example
Children learn by watching their parents and older siblings. Seeing you brush and floss daily, visit the family dentist for regular cleanings, and making oral health a priority teaches them healthy behaviors more effectively than by just telling them what to do. Be sure to practice what you preach when it comes to oral hygiene. Let your kids watch while you brush and floss and talk about why taking good care of your teeth matters. Then, inspect their handiwork after they brush to reinforce the proper technique.
Reward Progress
Positive reinforcement goes a long way with little ones. Reward them with praise, fun treats, or prizes when they reach brushing milestones. For example, give them a cool sticker for remembering to brush before bed every night for a week. Or promise an outing to their favorite place if they go a whole month without complaining about brushing. Check in with your family dentist for creative ideas on rewards appropriate for each age and stage.
According to the AAO, by the time they reach kindergarten, up to 40% of children have cavities. By starting dental care early with a dentist specializing in family dental Las Vegas families know and love and by making oral health fun, you’ll set your kids up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Schedule an appointment today at Hudson Family Dental to help prevent cavities and other dental issues.