The race to thwart dental health concerns and establish good habits begins when the first tooth emerges. Proactively involved parents greatly impact their child’s oral health care, paving the way for a long-lasting smile. Dental decay commonly affects kids and teens, making proper intervention crucial to develop strong and beautiful teeth. Proper oral health starts with brushing and flossing and involves much more.
Nutrition
A healthy diet is a critical part of caring for your teeth. Sugary foods lead to cavities and the erosion of enamel. Additionally, foods that get stuck in teeth attract harmful bacteria. If your child consumes soda or candy, remember to have them rinse their teeth with water and brush afterward. Taking these steps minimizes the lasting effects their diet can have on both their immediate and long-term dental health.
Studies also indicate that a diet high in fiber can help strengthen teeth. Great food choices that provide this benefit include bananas, broccoli, peanuts, blueberries, and spinach.
Protection
As a kid, you may have hated wearing mouth guards when engaging in sports, but modern mouth guards are much more comfortable. Ongoing advances in technology allow dentists to provide custom mouth guards that effectively protect your child’s smile.
Prevention
When your child is young, taking them to the dentist helps you understand ways you can aid in the healthy development of their smile. These early visits are opportunities to familiarize your child with their dentist and the dental office, establishing good habits early on.
During these first appointments, your dental professional can also advise on steps you can take to help your child’s smile mature properly, including the application of sealants. This coating can be applied to teeth to prevent grooves and pits in the enamel from trapping food. While sealants make it more difficult for cavities to form, brushing and flossing are still required.
Contact our Downtown Manhattan Dental Professional
If you’re in need of a family dentist in downtown Manhattan, Dr. Shu Ping Rong and her team are here to help young patients achieve and sustain oral health for a lifetime. Contact our office today to schedule your child’s next exam.