Did you know that nearly half of 2- to 19-year-olds will experience a dental cavity? According to Cigna Healthcare, tooth decay causes children and teens to miss an average of 2.2 days per school year. Due to that, parents miss an average of 2.5 work days annually, having to take their kids to the dentist. The loss of time off from work may not seem much, but considering possible loss of earnings and dental care costs, it all adds up.

In addition, oral health issues can impact a child’s overall health because untreated tooth decay can lead to pain and infections that may cause problems with eating, speaking, playing, and learning. Research shows that children with dental issues tend to have lower grades. The good news is that parents can reduce or prevent time loss from school and work when they are proactive about implementing good dental health habits early on.

Tips on teaching good dental care habits to your kids

1. Start early: It’s important to teach your children good dental habits as early as possible. As soon as your child’s first tooth appears, you can begin by gently cleaning it with a soft toothbrush.

2. Make it fun: Make brushing and flossing fun by turning it into a game or singing a song. You can also use colorful toothbrushes and toothpaste to make it more appealing to your child.

3. Lead by example: Children tend to imitate their parents, so it’s essential to lead by example and show them good dental hygiene habits. Brush and floss your teeth together with your child.

4. Schedule regular dental checkups: Regular dental checkups can help prevent dental problems and catch any issues early on. Make sure to schedule regular checkups for your child and attend them together.

5. Limit sugary snacks and drinks: Sugary snacks and drinks can lead to tooth decay. Limit your child’s intake of sugary foods and encourage them to drink water instead.

6. Use positive reinforcement: Praise your child for good dental hygiene habits and reward them for their efforts. Positive reinforcement can help motivate your child to continue practicing good dental habits.