How to Teach Your Teens the Importance of Brushing

 www.adelbergpediatricdental.com

 

 

Remember how difficult it was to get your toddlers to brush their teeth? The good news is you’re now well-trained in encouraging healthy habits. The bad news is that getting tweens and teens to brush every day can be even more difficult. Teens who fail to brush regularly set themselves up for a lifetime pattern of dental neglect. That’s why it’s important to continue encouraging your older kids to take care of their oral health.

Children who are susceptible to gum disease and cavities often start seeing problems when they hit puberty as habits begin to slip. A recent Gallup survey found that a whopping 34 percent of teens only brush their teeth once a day, although the American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth at least twice a day.

Image Source: Gallup

Get your tweens and teens back on track by following these easy tips:

·       Avoid being too pushy, which can make your children less likely to brush

·       Incorporate positive forms of reinforcement and reward your teens for taking care of their oral hygiene

·       Do not use a visit to the dentist as a punishment, as it can create fear and dread

·       Practice good dental health habits to lead by example

How do you get your tweens and teens to brush their teeth twice a day? Tweet us your ideas @AM_pediatric.

Children - Pre-teens: Need to Knows About Your Child's Smile

Adelberg Montalvan Pediatric Dental and Orthodontics

www.adelbergpediatricdental.com

From ages 6 - 12, children begin to lose their baby teeth and their adult teeth start to appear. So what does that mean? 

 
We've already discussed your child's smile from birth - 3 years old and 3 - 6 years old. So we're continuing our timeline and giving you some need to knows about your kid's oral health during their late childhood years.

 
See below for some age specific concerns and tips:

• Establish your pediatric dentist early and stick to regular checkups. The more comfortable your child is with their dental team, the more likely they'll keep up with their oral health care.
• Make sure that your kids get the fluoride they need. Discuss your kids’ specific fluoride needs with your dentist or pediatrician.
• Help your child brush their teeth until they can do so by themselves (usually around age 8). Then it's important to supervise and make sure they brush thoroughly 2min2x and spit out the toothpaste afterward.
• Encourage healthy eating habits! This includes a diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
• Orthodontic evaluations should happen by age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.
• Make sure your child athletes are prepared - buy them a mouth-guard if they are participating in sports!

  If you have any questions, let us know! Share with us on Facebook or give us a call.