It is Never Too Late to Straighten Your Teeth

Did you know that February is National Children's Dental Health Month? The American Dental Association sponsors National Children's Dental Health Month in order to raise awareness of childhood tooth decay, the most common type of chronic childhood disease. You can help your child avoid this common childhood illness, and February is a great time to start helping your child develop habits that will set them up for lifelong good dental health. Take a look at some good habits to start during National Children's Dental Health Month.

Drink More Tap Water

You already know that sugary sodas are bad for your child's teeth. But did you know that many other drinks, including fruit juices, can also contribute to childhood tooth decay? The best beverage choice for your child's dental health is water. Water doesn't contain sugars and acids that can break down your child's tooth enamel, and it helps wash away food particles and bacteria that can cling to your child's teeth and cause decay.

But think twice before you reach for bottled water—try filling a glass or thermos with tap water instead. In most areas, tap water is fortified with fluoride, a mineral that helps harden enamel and prevent tooth decay. Bottled water generally does not contain fluoride, or not enough to make a difference to your child's teeth. A habit of drinking tap water can help protect your child's dental health.

Teach Your Child to Floss

You can start brushing your child's teeth in infancy, even before their teeth begin to break through the gum line. This helps start your child off with the good habit of brushing their teeth at least twice a day. However, brushing alone is not enough—your child also needs to develop the habit of flossing every day.

When babies start getting their teeth, the teeth are generally spaced a distance away from each other, but between the ages of two and six, the teeth begin to fit together more closely. When the teeth begin to fit closely is when you need to begin teaching them to floss. Your child will need your help flossing until they've developed the dexterity to do it thoroughly themselves.

Buy New Toothbrushes

Toothbrushes should be replaced three or four times a year, and possibly more often if you or your child gets a cold or the flu. Even if your child doesn't need a new toothbrush right now, you can help teach your child the habit of regular toothbrush replacement by stocking up on new brushes during National Children's Dental Health Month.

Involve your child in picking out their new toothbrushes. Show your child the type of toothbrush they should be using—make sure they're soft-bristled—and let your child pick out toothbrushes decorated with colors or characters that they like. The next time that your child's toothbrush needs to be replaced, show them the worn bristles that indicate that the toothbrush has been used enough, and let them choose one of the new toothbrushes that they picked out.

You may also want to schedule one of your child's regular dental appointments this month. Take the opportunity to celebrate National Children's Dental Health Month by showing your children the importance of good dental care and regular visits to the dentist. 

For more information, reach out to dental clinics like Sun Dental.