Children's dental care should be a priority as they grow, and it's up to every parent to encourage healthy habits and schedule regular family dentistry visits. The teeth and gums are an essential part of a child's overall state of well-being, and starting young can prevent painful and expensive problems later in life. Here's a closer look at how early oral health can impact adulthood and what you can do to forge an appreciation in your kids.

How Neglected Oral Health Affects the Rest of the Body

In addition to cavities, gum disease is a common result of poor oral health as kids grow into their teens, potentially causing serious problems later in life. Gingivitis and its more dangerous progression, periodontitis, lead to tooth decay, tooth loss, and gum infection, but many people don't realize these infections affect the whole body. 

This oral disease increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, and strokes. Gum disease may also increase the likelihood of developing cancer. Tooth decay can lead to infections as well, compounding many of these risks. With this in mind, parents should encourage brushing, flossing, and healthy diets while educating their kids about the importance of dental health throughout their lives.

How to Encourage Good Oral Health in Children

Within six months of your child's first tooth, you should take them to a family dentistry professional for their first checkup. This is because even infants are prone to oral health issues from baby bottles and sucking on pacifiers. Excessive use of these items can push a child's teeth out of alignment, causing them to need braces later on.

The first step in teaching your child how to care for their teeth and gums is by setting a routine of brushing for two minutes twice a day. Parents should handle this task themselves from the very first tooth through the first six years or so, and then kids can take over and brush on their own. Flossing afterward is also essential, as it removes residue from between the teeth where the brush can't reach.

Visiting the dentist every six months will set an excellent example for your children of how they should keep up with their oral hygiene. Teaching them when they're young can instill the importance of feeling good throughout their bodies and encourage a lifetime of healthy habits. 

If you're looking for a family dentistry practice, turn to the compassionate and kid-friendly Jim S. Caudill, DMD PSC in Hazard, KY. Dr. Caudill offers a wide range of treatments, from regular teeth cleanings to advanced procedures, and they're here for you from your baby's first appointment to their high school graduation and beyond. The team makes scheduling appointments more convenient and can cater to your entire family. Learn more about the practice on the website or call (606) 436-3432 to schedule an appointment.