The benefits of establishing good oral hygiene habits in your child at a young age are far-reaching. They will help your child year after year to 
maintain a healthy, strong, and complete set of teeth. Learn more about how to teach your child good oral hygiene habits, including regular visits to Corley Family Dentistry, a children’s dentistry in Decatur, IL.
Why Good Oral Hygiene Matters
Oral hygiene is the ongoing process of keeping your mouth as clean as possible throughout the day. The cleaner your mouth is, the lower the chance of dental diseases and tooth loss. Good dental hygiene is also important for aesthetic reasons. It keeps your teeth looking polished and white. It also reduces the chance of experiencing the embarrassment of bad breath.
Important Habits to Teach
Most children already know that they should brush their teeth, but sometimes it is important to teach them more details about proper dental hygiene. Also, take the time to explain exactly why children's dentistry is important. Here are a few things to teach them:
- When you brush, you should do so for at least two minutes at a time. Consider buying your child a timed toothbrush.
- In addition to brushing, you must also floss to protect your gum health. Kids aren’t very keen on flossing, so you have to show them how to do it to make it a new regular habit. Tell them about gingivitis, and how it can even affect young people.
- Good dental hygiene is also about changing the types of foods you eat. Replace some of that candy with apple slices and string cheese, which is high in calcium.
- Take your child to your Decatur, IL, children's dentistry office regularly so that she or he can get familiar with a pediatric dentist.
Dental Treatments for Your Child
In addition to teaching your child better hygiene habits, there are dental treatments that can help prevent dental problems like tooth decay and cavity formation. Talk to your dentist about these options:
- Dental sealants
- Fluoride treatments
- Orthodontics for a better bite and tooth spacing
Schedule Regular Appointments for Your Child
Now is the right time to start teaching your child good oral hygiene habits, including the importance of regular dental visits. Call (217) 330-6217 today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Chad Corley or Dr. Natalie Corley at their Decatur, IL, children’s dentistry office.