As a parent, you will want your child to be healthy and happy. While a well-balanced diet and healthy home life will help, focusing on their teeth and gums is also necessary. Thankfully, teaching your child how to protect their smile early on in their life will save them years of stress that can affect their mouth and gums. With these simple preventative measures, your child can learn how to protect their smile.

The 2x2 Rule

One of the most important things you can teach your child is how and when they need to brush their teeth. According to most experts, brushing for two minutes at a time twice a day is imperative for removing food residue and bacteria that can harden into problematic plaque and tartar.

Your child should use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste that contains fluoride. This natural mineral strengthens enamel, protecting the teeth from cavities and decay.

When brushing, make sure your child uses back and forth gentle strokes that reach the front, bottom, and behind surfaces of the teeth. The toothbrush should be held at an angle when brushing the gum tissue, as well. This will ensure all food and bacteria is removed from the gums without excessive force that can harm the soft tissue.

Dental Health Diet

Most parents know they should not allow their children to consume large amounts of sugary foods. However, some foods that you may believe are healthy can be damaging to their teeth and gums.

For example, fruit juice can become very problematic if they consume it daily. Even if it is made from real fruit, juice contains sugar and acidic properties that erode enamel, stain the teeth, and allow food and bacteria to affect their oral health. If your child loves juice, dilute half of it with water to protect their mouth, teeth, and gums.

Foods rich in calcium and vitamin D are essential to your child's teeth. Make sure they drink whole milk daily. In addition, salmon and other fish are rich in omega 3 fatty acids and vitamin D, which strengthen teeth and bones.

Oranges and apples are both excellent snacks for your child. Both contain vitamin C, which enhances the immune system's function. Without a healthy immune system, your child will be unable to fight off cavities and infections.

With proper brushing and a healthy diet, your child can prevent dental issues. By learning these simple solutions early, your child can grow up with healthy and strong teeth and gums. Speak with your family dentist for more tips.