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Every parent knows good oral hygiene is important for children’s health, but it’s also good for parents’ wallets. Helping your children instill good oral hygiene can feel like an uphill battle, but it’s well worth it. Learn about the best healthy kids' dental habits for optimal teeth and gum health.

1) Don’t Reward With Sweets

Children need recognition for their accomplishments, but try to orient rewards more toward a sense of pride and accomplishment than the reinforcement of a sweet treat. Try using an activity your child enjoys as an incentive for good behavior, such as an hour of watching television or a trip to their favorite park.

2) Do Brush Your Teeth Alongside Your Child

Children often frown at chores because they think it’s unfair they have to do something they seldom see you doing. This is part of the shortsightedness of childhood, but if you take the time to brush your teeth with your child twice a day, you’ll be surprised at the long-term results. They’ll grow to like the routine of spending time with you each day, and will want to brush their teeth as they see you, their role model, doing it.

3) Do Let Them Choose Their Own Toothbrush

Little victories are great for kids. They often feel so much is out of their control that allowing them little choices helps them feel they’ve got at least some say in their lives. For instance, while brushing their teeth can seem like a daily nuisance, the feeling of forced labor can be mitigated when they’re allowed to select their own toothbrush at the store. Let them choose one that fits their growing sense of style.

4) Do Ensure Your Kid’s First Dentist Visit Is a Positive One

Make sure to take your child to a family dentistry. They’ll explain procedures in advance so you can let your child know what to expect ahead of time. Family dentists specialize in delivering gentle dental care in a kid-friendly environment – one that focuses on making the visit enjoyable for the child.

Make Healthy Kids Dental Habits a Lifestyle

For compassionate and gentle dentistry in Covington, Soos Creek Dental specializes in caring dentistry for the whole family, providing significant savings on patient exams, dental implants and Invisalign. Give us a call today to book an appointment.