Unless you’re an avid follower of all things dental health related (which, if you are, you deserve a round of applause!), you may not have recognized that in addition to other things, February is National Children’s Dental Health Month! As you first hear this, you may think to yourself that this is a wonderful way to promote keeping kids’ smiles safe. Then, however, you may wonder what to do in order to feel that you and your kids are participating, too. Luckily, it’s as easy as taking a moment of your time with our Ankeny, IA team to review the care you’re practicing with your kiddo!
Start Early For A Lifetime Of Oral Health!
We find that in many instances, figuring out how to begin caring for your child’s dental health can be the most confusing and the scariest! It may seem difficult but it’s only because this is new territory. Fortunately, it’s quite easy to keep little ones’ smiles clean. For babies, you will use a damp cloth to gently clean your child’s gums. This is before the first tooth arrives. So, what about after that first tooth shows up, you wonder? We remind you: When tooth number one arrives, you will want to call us to set up an initial visit and you will want to switch from a cloth to a soft toothbrush and water for tooth-cleansing!
Toothpaste Questions: Getting Started
Again, you may wonder whether dental care for your young child should include toothpaste or not. This is also easy to navigate. Our team reminds you that you can wait until about the two-year mark before you begin incorporating toothpaste into your kiddo’s dental care. As for whether or not it should contain fluoride? Don’t include this natural mineral until you are sure your kids will spit the toothpaste out. At this point, do begin including fluoridated toothpaste and you’re good to go!
Keep Up With Home And Professional Care!
What you’re aiming to do as early as possible, of course, is to keep your child’s dental care on track for healthy development and for a successful formation of habits! First, remember that the first leg of this journey includes maintaining a consistent approach to dental hygiene at home with twice-daily sessions. Next, focus on your child’s professional dental care with us. We suggest bringing your child in for checkups and cleanings every six months, just like for Mom and Dad!
Promote Your Child’s Healthiest Smile
For new and experienced parents alike, navigating dental care for growing children can present all sorts of challenges and bring lots of questions to mind! For easy, streamlined care and advice, come see us! Visit us for a dental checkup in Ankeny, IA by contacting Dental Impressions to schedule a visit at (515) 965-0230.
