February is officially National Children’s Dental Health Month, an annual awareness campaign led by the American Dental Association (ADA). That’s why this month, our Grand Rapids, MI, family dentists are dedicated to educating families about the importance of children’s oral health and encouraging healthy habits that can last a lifetime.
Here’s how early prevention and education starting in childhood lead to strong and healthy smiles down the road.
Why Does Children’s Dental Health Matter?
Good oral health is about more than just a bright smile. Healthy teeth and gums support your child’s overall development, including their ability to eat, speak, and feel confident. You might think baby teeth don’t matter because they eventually fall out, but neglect is far from the right solution.
Baby teeth play an important role by:
- Holding space for permanent teeth
- Supporting proper speech development
- Helping children chew nutritious foods
- Guiding the proper development of a child’s jaw and overall oral structure
Tooth decay remains one of the most common childhood health conditions, but it is also highly preventable with proper at-home care and professional teeth cleanings inside our Grand Rapids, MI, dental office.
Healthy Dental Habits to Start Early Include:
Brushing Twice a Day with Fluoride Toothpaste
Children should brush for two minutes in the morning and before bed. Parents should assist or supervise brushing until children can brush effectively on their own (usually around age 6 or 7). For kids under 3, only use a small smear of fluoride toothpaste that’s equal to a grain of rice. Children should not graduate to a pea-sized amount until they are between 3 and 6 years old.
Flossing Teeth Daily
Once you notice two teeth that touch in your child’s smile, it’s time to put those daily flossing tips into action. It may seem like too soon if they only have a few baby teeth to their name, but those tight spaces can trap food and plaque just like adult teeth do. Many parents wait for a full set of teeth before starting, but early preventive dental care builds a routine that becomes second nature as your child grows.
Our team of dentists recommend that you:
- Wind about 18 inches of floss around each middle finger and pinch it between your thumb and index finger.
- Carefully insert the piece of floss between two teeth while making a back and forth motion.
- Curve the floss in a “C” shape around each tooth and move the floss up and down the inner side of each tooth.
- Repeat until you’ve made your way through each part of your child’s smile (even behind the back molars!). Try to use a clean part of the 18 in. of floss for each tooth you work on.
Choosing Tooth-Friendly Foods & Drinks
Limit sugary snacks and beverages. Encourage water, fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and other foods that help support strong teeth. Treats can still be given, but should be enjoyed in moderation.
Scheduling Regular Dental Checkups
Routine dental visits help with cavity prevention, detecting issues early, and allowing children to become comfortable with dental care in a positive environment. Our local family dentists recommend your child come in for a checkup every 6 months, or twice a year.
How Do I Make Dental Care Fun for My Kid?
Positive dental experiences help children feel confident and relaxed about oral care. Parents can make dental hygiene more engaging by:
- Letting kids pick their toothbrush or toothpaste
- Using fun songs or timers while brushing
- Reading books or watching videos about dental health
- Praising children for good brushing and flossing habits
Building these routines early can set the foundation for lifelong oral health.
Why Is February a Great Time for a Dental Visit?
Children’s Dental Health Month is an excellent reminder to schedule your child’s next dental checkup. Preventive visits help keep small issues from becoming bigger problems, and help kids stay on track with healthy habits all year long.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If it’s been a while since your child’s last dental visit, our family dentists in Grand Rapids, MI, can help! Call Great Lakes Dental Care today at (616) 784-6300 or contact us online to schedule an appointment and take the next step towards building a strong, healthy smile for your child that lasts a lifetime.
