Aaron M. Schertzer DDS PC

5445 Telegraph Road
Saint Louis, Missouri 63129
(314) 892 -2120
 

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Posts for tag: Oral Hygiene Habits

By Advanced Dental Arts
June 10, 2020
Category: Oral Health

Teaching Your Child Good Oral Hygiene Habits

You might not know it but tooth decay is the most common chronic disease that affects children in the U.S. The good news is that it can be prevented with the right oral hygiene habits. Dr. Aaron Schertzer is a dentist at Advanced Dental Arts in Oakville, MO. He specializes in family dentistry.

How to Encourage Good Oral Hygiene

Here are some important things to consider when you’re teaching your child good oral hygiene habits:

  • Brush and floss daily: Teaching your child to brush and floss are the most essential parts of oral hygiene. You should teach your child to use toothpaste as soon as they are old enough not to swallow it. You can make brushing fun by using flavored toothpaste. As soon as your child’s teeth are touching, you should show them how to floss. Using a water flosser makes this much easier. Encourage them to brush twice daily and to floss once each day.
  • Brush all teeth: The ADA recommends brushing for two minutes each time. Make sure your child is brushing the front, inside, and chewing surfaces of each tooth. Setting a timer can get them into a routine.
  • Use media: Watching videos and reading books about taking care of teeth can help children understand how important oral hygiene is. It’s much easier for children to learn oral care when they can see one of their favorite characters brushing and flossing.

The Importance of Regular Dental Visits

Early dental visits are important for children. You should start taking your child to the dentist within the first year after their teeth appear. It’s important to protect the health of primary teeth for the following reasons:

  • They help children to bite and chew, maintaining good nutrition
  • They benefit good speech development
  • They are important for retaining spaces for permanent teeth
  • A healthy smile makes children feel good about how they look

Oakville residents book their family dentistry appointments in advance at Advanced Dental Arts so they can be sure they never miss out on a check-up.

If you live in St. Louis and you are looking for family dentistry, contact Dr. Schertzer at (314) 892 -2120. He can also help recommend ways to teach your child good hygiene practices.

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