How to Create a Dental Health Routine That Works for Your Whole Family

As your family adjusts to your back-to-school routine, you may be adapting to earlier mornings, afternoon sports practice, and nightly homework. As you’re making these changes together, why not overhaul your oral hygiene habits too?

In today’s blog post, let’s look at six tips to help you create a dental health routine that works for your whole family.

1. Make brushing fun!

If you’re a parent of young children, chances are, you’ve experienced pushback when it comes to your kids brushing and flossing their teeth. To help encourage healthy habits, look for a toothbrush with a favorite character or color on it. You can find a two-minute song and turn it into a dance party! Or look for a YouTube video to help them stay focused and consistently care for their teeth.

2. Be a good example.

Set the tone for your family by being diligent about your own oral health. Brush your teeth every morning and night; floss once per day; and use a mouthwash. When you commit to your dental routine, your kids will understand its importance and (hopefully) emulate your behavior.

3. Floss as a family.

Speaking of flossing…we get it: It’s not the most fun part of your daily dental care. Still, it’s incredibly important to the health of your teeth and gums. Consider using flossers designed for your kids’ smaller mouths or investing in a water flosser, which is more exciting than string floss. If you floss as a family before bed, your kids will come to accept it as a part of their bedtime routine.

4. Schedule regular check-ups with your dentist.

Of course, we can’t write a blog post about your family’s dental routine without reminding you to schedule biannual appointments for every family member! These regular visits ensure that you’re on the right track with your at-home care and allow your dentist to catch any problems at the early stages.

5. Eat a balanced diet.

You are what you eat! Opt for crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots (both of which help to naturally clean your teeth). Low-fat dairy products are also good for your teeth: Thanks to the high calcium levels, they help to strengthen your enamel. Avoid foods and drinks with added sugar. This sugar feeds the natural bacteria in your mouth, which can cause tooth decay and cavities.

6. Explain why your family’s dental routine matters.

Finally, sit down with your kids and explain why their dental routine is critical to their overall health. Talk to them about cavities and gum disease. Tell them how their different snacks impact their teeth. Keep it simple, stressing that a healthy smile is part of a happy life!

Use these simple tips to improve your family dental health routine and make your smiles even brighter!

We hope you’ll choose Maitland Ave Smile Co. for all of your oral health needs.

 

Call us at 407.834.0330 to schedule your appointment today! Check out our Dental Blog to learn more about topics like restorative dentistry, dental anxiety, and more.