Sometimes healthy habits are learned and not automatic. In this blog, your Lindenhurst dentist provides seven tips that Lindenhurst families should know and adopt to achieve and maintain excellent oral health.
Keep reading to learn more about the following:
- Start Good Oral Health Habits Early
- Brush Your Teeth At least Twice Daily
- Make Flossing a Family Affair
- Family-Friendly Foods for Strong Teeth
- Protect Your Family’s Teeth During Sports
- Stay On-Schedule with Dental Visits
- Set a Positive Example
We’ll also explore the treatments and services you’ll find at Pearly Place Dental.
7 Essential Dental Habits for the Entire Family
Your family dentist in Lindenhurst, NY, cares for patients of all ages, including young children and senior adults. This means we encounter a wide range of dental health issues. Fortunately, with a few healthy habits, you can mitigate dental health risks and keep your family smiling.
1. Start Good Oral Habits Early
We recommend bringing your child to the dentist when you notice their first tooth emerging from the gum. This usually happens around age one.
By starting your child’s dental care early, the dentist is better able to monitor their development from the first stage. Early care also helps acclimate your child to the dental setting and can help guard against dental phobia in adulthood.
We make these early visits fun and upbeat. We concentrate on counting teeth, rides in the dental chair, and getting to know your little one.
Later, when it’s time for teeth cleanings, dental sealants, fluoride treatments, and restorations, we will have already built a trusting relationship with your child.
For your part, be sure to discuss dentistry in a positive light and avoid words like “drill.”
Our team understands that dental care for kids is a partnership between us and you. We are always here to answer questions and share information on nutrition, pacifier use, and other related topics.
Make early and regular dental care for your child a habit!
2. Brush your Teeth at Least Twice Daily
Ideally, you should brush at least twice a day; brushing after every meal is even better. Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste that bears the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval.
If the toothpaste is approved by the ADA, it’s fine if you allow your child to choose a bubble gum or fruit-flavored toothpaste. For older adults, ADA-approved toothpaste may be marked to promote periodontal health.
Remember to always brush gently and in a circular motion, cleaning all sides of your teeth. For optimal results, spend at least two minutes.
3. Make Flossing a Family Affair
Many people forget to floss. So, instead of flossing at least once daily, they floss every few days, which can lead to tooth decay and oral infections.
Make flossing a family affair, which encourages kids to start flossing. Teach your child how to wind the floss around their fingers and how to unwind as they go, using a fresh section of string for every pass-through.
Teach them to be gentle when flossing and not to tug their string.
You can set flossing sessions to music to make the experience more enjoyable.
4. Family-Friendly Foods for Strong Teeth
Families, especially children, often indulge in snacks that may not be good for their teeth and gums.
We recommend the following:
- Water instead of juice and soda
- Fruit instead of cookies and candy
- String cheese instead of sugary snacks
- Nuts instead of fruit roll-ups
For additional suggestions, including meal planning ideas, talk to your Lindenhurst dentist or hygienist.
5. Protect Your Family’s Teeth During Sports
Kids may be prone to oral injuries because they play hard, but adults are not immune. If your child or a family member participates in sports or rough play, consider consulting with a dentist about a custom mouthguard.
Custom mouthguards offer far more protection than over-the-counter options.
Whenever possible, we want you and your loved ones to avoid dental emergencies in Lindenhurst.
6. Stay on Schedule with Dental Visits
Visit your dentist every six months for checkups and teeth cleanings. This schedule remains the same regardless of your age, as it has been shown to reduce your risk of oral health complications, including tooth decay, tooth infections, and gum disease.
Checkups help us diagnose small or emerging issues before they pose a significant risk to your oral health. Teeth cleanings enable us to remove cavity-causing bacteria and plaque from your teeth and gums. Teeth cleanings significantly reduce your risk of oral health complications, including gum disease.
Gum disease is a serious condition that requires ongoing treatment to prevent tooth loss and maintain overall health. Without treatment, you risk cardiovascular involvement, pregnancy complications, Alzheimer’s disease, and other difficulties.
7. Set a Positive Example
Kids, especially young children, tend to mimic adults. So, if you set a good example by brushing and flossing regularly, your child may be more likely to follow your example.
If you indulge in healthy snacks and make them available, your child may pick up on or adapt to dietary changes.
Additionally, if you discuss oral hygiene sessions and dental appointments in a positive light, your child may feel more excited or eager to brush their teeth and visit the dentist.
For our part, we always make kids feel safe and welcome. We’re good for a laugh and equally good at building trust.
Treatments and Services you’ll Find at Pearly Place Dental
- Preventive Dentistry
- General Dentistry
- Emergency Dentistry
- Cosmetic Dentistry
- Restorative Dentistry
- Tooth Replacement
- Same-Day Crowns
Are You Looking for a Family Dentist in Lindenhurst?
We’re always happy to meet individuals and families and are thrilled to welcome you. To get started or if you have questions for our team, call us today at (631) 226-1900.
Ask us about our pay-over-time option!