May is Family Wellness Month, which means it’s the perfect time to re-evaluate your household’s oral health regimen. Teaching your children the importance of good dental care will instill lifelong habits to maintain their beautiful smiles. To help you, the pediatric dentists at Pedodontic Associates on Oahu and Maui, HI share some tips for oral hygiene.

3 Family-Friendly Dental Care Tips

1. Brush Twice a Day

Get your children accustomed to brushing their teeth twice a day. If they’re having difficulties, turn it into a game to make them look forward to dental care. You can also let them choose a flavored toothpaste or character toothbrush.

2. Limit Consumption of Sugar

Even though your child’s baby teeth are only temporary, it’s important to fight cavities at an early age. When your child consumes sugary foods and juices, the bacteria in their mouth feeds off the sugar. It then produces acids that break down tooth enamel and eventually cause cavities. Choose healthy rather than sugary; swap cookies and candies for fruits and vegetables.

3. Visit the Dentist Twice a Year

Practicing proper oral hygiene is only half the battle. It is essential to take your children to the dentist at least twice a year for a professional cleaning and checkup as well. During this appointment, your dentist will perform a deep clean and examine your child’s teeth for any signs of cavities or gum disease. This is also your chance to ask any questions about oral care for your kids.

Adopting the above tips will make a positive impact on your entire family’s oral health. When you’re ready to schedule your child’s next appointment with the family dentist, turn to the team at Pedodontic Associates. They provide a wide range of kids’ dental care services, from routine cleanings to early infant care. Give one of their three offices a call today: (808) 487-7933 for Pearlridge, (808) 735-1733 for Kahala, and (808) 877-0066 for Kahului. Visit their website for more information about their services.