We know that teaching children to regularly brush and floss teeth is essential. However, there are many other ways that also help your children have healthier teeth.
Healthy Teeth Begin Before Birth
A newborn’s teeth are not visible, but they already exist below the gum line. They begin budding around the sixth week of pregnancy and lay down the inner tooth layer, called dentin, at about the third or fourth month of pregnancy.
Building a better baby with strong teeth depends upon how you care for yourself during pregnancy. That means you must receive the vitamins and minerals necessary for healthy teeth, or the developing fetus has nothing to work with. Here are some nutrients to consume and some things to avoid in order to build a good foundation for a child’s dental health.
Eat foods containing calcium and vitamin D, phosphorous and protein. That means consume whole foods (whole grains and milk products, beans or meats) and supplement with prenatal vitamins. Vitamin D is very important to bones and teeth, but it may be difficult to get proper amounts during a pregnancy. Supplements of vitamin D or D3 can help additionally to ensure you get what you and your baby need.
A Healthy Diet Prevents Tooth Decay
As adults, we slide off the wagon with sugary, sticky treats whenever we want to, because we can choose to eat foods that cause dental decay. Children don’t have that choice. They will eat what you accustom them to eating. One of the best things you can do for your child’s future dental health is to prepare healthy foods and serve them regularly.
Baking treats is a lot of fun, both for the baker and the eater. Children appreciate sugary confections, and they are apt to consume as much as you will prepare. If you give a child a choice between a baked potato and a piece of cake, the cake will always come off the winner.
The trick is to provide healthy options for your children to help them develop and grow stronger.
Select A Pediatric Dentist If Possible
Not long ago everyone hated going to the dentist, because the visit was often associated with discomfort. Visiting a dentist who is kind and avoids pain for their patients will help your children relax more. Teach your children what the dentist is doing and how he help them be the most comfortable they can. Do your research and find a dentist, like the professionals at Waterford Dental, that will help you and your child towards better oral health.
It is important for children to understand that good dental health is their own responsibility, not that of the dentist. Visiting a dentist who praises a job well done and informs a child about dental care in a way that she understands will help you encourage your child towards healthier teeth.
