Establishing healthy habits is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your family. Children learn from example, which is why parents need to be intentional about their habits. Oral health is often a difficult habit for children, which is why they need someone to show them what to do. So how can you do that?

Brushing Habits

In order to keep your mouth healthy, it requires brushing and flossing. For optimal results, you should brush your teeth twice a day, floss, and rinse with fluoride mouthwash. Brushing routines begin once your child has teeth. It’s common for children around six months old to begin growing in their teeth. At this age, you should wipe your baby’s gums with a warm cloth to clean their mouth. At 18 months old start using low-fluoride toothpaste to gently clean their mouth. Once more teeth come in and they become older, start showing them how to brush their teeth. You should be actively helping your child brush their teeth twice a day at least until seven years of age.

Dentist Visits

Your child should first visit the dentist at least six months after their first tooth or by age one. As stated before, teeth begin coming in around six months old, so it’s important to visit the dentist shortly after. The purpose for this is similar to why adults should go to the dentist every six months for cleanings. It gives your dentist the ability to closely track and monitor your child’s oral health as they grow. One of the first indicators of various health issues show through your oral health. A consistent relationship with your dentist can help prevent future health issues while keeping your child’s teeth healthy.

If you are interested in learning more about different ways to build good habits with your child, contact Wytheville Dental Group. At Wytheville Dental, we offer a variety of services to help keep your family healthy. To schedule an appointment with one of our dentists, contact us online here or call us at (276) 228-2777 today to build healthy habits.