FYI

As a dental professional, you already know the importance of teaching kids about oral health care. However, kids learn a lot of their dental habits from their parents — so educating parents on how to support their children’s dental health is crucial. In honor of National Children’s Dental Health Month, here are five simple but useful pediatric dental care tips you can pass on to parents:
 

Start them young

Introducing oral health care early is vital to creating a positive dental experience for kids. Remind parents of the important role that regular dental exams play not just in preventive care, but in helping kids get comfortable with visiting the dentist. Early exposure to dental care allows children to become familiar with all of the sights, sounds and procedures they may encounter at the dentist, so they’ll be less intimidated when they get older. 
 

Gamify brushing and flossing

Two minutes, twice a day helps keeps the cavities away. But the reality is, many kids don’t brush their teeth properly or for long enough. It’s important to demonstrate the correct brushing and flossing techniques to both kids and parents, and ask parents to reinforce these practices at home.

One way parents can do this is by transforming brushing and flossing into entertaining activities. Perhaps parents and kids brush their teeth together as a family, setting a timer for 2 minutes or picking a favorite 2-minute song to brush to. They could also use a brushing and flossing calendar like this adorable version from the ADA, or reward kids with a sticker every time they correctly complete their brushing and flossing routine.
 

Limit sugary drinks and snacks

This one might seem obvious, but it’s a good idea to reiterate it to parents. With sugar being a leading cause of tooth decay, it’s imperative that parents understand the harmful effects of sugar on their kids’ teeth, and limit candy, soda and sneaky sugary drinks such as juice. Encourage parents to feed their children a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains to support strong teeth and gums. And let them know that when their kids do consume sugary foods, it’s best to have them brush their teeth or rinse their mouths with water afterward to minimize the effects of sugar on their teeth.
 

Make dental care fun

Another way that parents can foster healthy dental habits in their children is to make oral care fun by using colorful toothbrushes, flavored toothpastes and games or activities. One idea: parents can leave special notes “from the Tooth Fairy” to their kids, complimenting them on their good oral hygiene, or for being brave at the dentist. Delta Dental offers many free activities and educational resources for kids, including digital downloads that you can print and give to families who visit your practice.
 

Lead by example

Above all, the best way that parents can support their kids’ dental health is to practice good oral care habits themselves. Kids learn from their parents, so encourage parents to set a healthy standard by getting regular dental exams, treating problems early on, and demonstrating proper brushing and flossing techniques. It’s important to build trust with the parents who visit your practice as well. Check out our article on increasing patient retention for simple-but-impactful ways to ensure that all of your patients feel comfortable and valued, regardless of age.
 

Looking for more ways to promote pediatric dental health?

Explore our tips for creating a kid-friendly dental practice.