2 Common Mistakes Parents Make With Their Child's Oral Health

From providing your child with a safe, happy home to giving them a good education and preparing healthy meals, it is easy to see the overwhelming nature of parenting. Your child's health is probably a priority, but this should also include the health of their mouth, teeth, and gums. Unfortunately, certain common mistakes may be harming your child's smile and could lead to dentistry issues. Here are a few mistakes you need to learn to avoid, if you want your child to have a healthy and appealing smile.

Providing Juices and Sport's Drinks

If you look in most children's lunch totes and gym bags, you will probably find juice boxes, pouches, and bottles of sport's drinks. Ensuring your child stays hydrated is wise, but the majority of drinks given to children today are filled with dyes and sugars that are harmful to their teeth and gums.

Most juices, including the ones that are made with real fruit, are loaded with acids and sugars that erode tooth enamel. Over time, food and bacteria can seep through damaged enamel, staining the teeth and increasing the risk of cavities and decay.

Water is the best option to help your child stay hydrated in a manner that will not affect their teeth. If possible, allow them to buy milk in the school cafeteria. Since it contains calcium and no sugar, white milk will strengthen your child's bones and teeth without harming their smile.

Not Paying Attention to Their Oral Hygiene

You may feel your child is capable of brushing, flossing, and rinsing without supervision. However, it is best to pay attention to the time and technique used if you want to them to practice good oral hygiene.

Experts recommend brushing 2 times a day, but the length of time your child brushes matters, as well. Watch your child, and use a timer to make sure they brush for two minutes every time they brush. This time is sufficient for removing food residue and plaque that has built up on the teeth.

Flossing is important, but your child does not necessarily need to floss every time they brush. Once a day is recommended for removing food particles from between and behind the teeth.

Parenting is difficult at times, but you can promote healthy behavior when it comes to your child's oral health. By avoiding these mistakes, your child will learn simple solutions to help them have a strong and appealing smile.