26 | HUNTSVILLE LIVING | DECEMBER 2024
How to get kids more engaged in their dental health
Dental health should be a priority at any age , and is especially important for children . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says more than half of children between the ages of six and eight have had a cavity in at least one of their primary teeth . Also , more than half of adolescents aged 12 to 19 have had a cavity in at least one permanent tooth . Cavities and other oral health conditions , such as periodontal diseases , are largely preventable with proper oral hygiene .
Parents know that getting children - especially young ones - to care for their teeth in the correct manner may require some help and then reinforcement throughout the developmental years . However , there are ways to make dental care a more engaging activity for youngsters .
Use plaque-disclosing tablets
Show children just where they may need to direct more brushing effort with plaque-disclosing tablets . These tablets use food-grade coloring in them , which sticks to areas with plaque accumulation . After chewing the tablets and the child smiles , he or she will see the spots where efforts need to be ramped up . This can be a fun lesson as children will likely enjoy seeing their teeth covered in the tablet color .
Flavored toothpastes and mouthwashes
Mint reigns supreme in oral health products as the dominant flavor , but not all children are enamored with that flavor . Most oral care products geared toward the younger set come in different flavors like bubble gum and berry . Kids can take active roles in their oral health by choosing the flavored products they prefer to use .
Electronic toothbrushes
Children may enjoy using electronic toothbrushes because they are easy to maneuver and can even seem like a toy . According to the Cleveland Clinic , electric toothbrushes generally are considered more effective at removing plaque and keeping teeth clean . That benefits kids and adults because it potentially means fewer painful visits with the dentist .
Make it a competition
Children love games and healthy competition between peers and siblings . Offer a prize ( non-sugary , of course ) to children who brush and floss daily for the required times . Extra points can be awarded for every dental wellness check that comes
back with a glowing report .
Make smart food choices
Engage children in lessons and choices about which foods are good for oral health and which may be poor . Sticky foods or those with a lot of sugary content should only be occasional treats . The entire family can work together to plan meals around foods that are good for the teeth and gums , such as crunchy veggies , leafy greens , high-calcium dairy products , and fatty fish .
Practice on pets
Pets need clean teeth , too . Children may enjoy not only brushing their own teeth , but learning how to keep their companion animals ’ mouths healthy with brushing and care .
Various strategies can increase the chances that kids engage with oral hygiene practices early on .
26 | HUNTSVILLE LIVING | DECEMBER 2024