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Nurturing Little Smiles: 13 Must-Do's for Fostering Healthy Dental Habits in Children in Calgary

"Hello, wonderful parents and caregivers! I'm Dr. Cameron Zealand, a passionate pediatric dentist at North Calgary Pediatric Dentistry. Today, I'm excited to share some insights on a topic close to my heart: preventing bad dental habits in our precious little ones. As parents, we play a pivotal role in setting the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. So, let's dive into (number here) key strategies to ensure our kids grow up with radiant grins and a positive relationship with dental care."

dental habits calgary
1. Lead by Example
Children are incredible imitators, and they learn by observing those around them. Show your kids the importance of good oral hygiene by demonstrating your own impeccable dental habits. Brush and floss together as a family, making it a fun and bonding activity.


2. Start Early
The journey to a healthy smile begins even before the first tooth emerges. Gently clean your baby's gums with a soft cloth after feedings. Once the first tooth arrives, transition to a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for infants.


3. Make Brushing Fun
Transform brushing into an exciting adventure rather than a chore. Choose colorful toothbrushes with their favorite characters and play their favorite tunes during brushing time. Creating a positive association with brushing sets the stage for a lifetime of good habits.


4. Set a Routine
Consistency is key. Establish a regular oral care routine that includes brushing and flossing at least twice a day. Consistent habits become second nature for children, making them less likely to forget or skip their oral care regimen.


5. Choose the Right Toothpaste
Selecting the right toothpaste for your child is crucial. Opt for a fluoride toothpaste that's age-appropriate and safe for ingestion. Begin with a rice-sized smear for infants and a pea-sized amount for older children.


6. Mind Their Diet
A balanced diet not only supports overall health but also contributes to dental well-being. Limit sugary snacks and beverages, and encourage wholesome options like fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Drinking water after meals helps rinse away food particles and sugars.


7. Embrace Regular Dental Visits
Introduce your child to the dentist early, ideally around their first birthday. Regular dental check-ups are crucial for catching potential issues early and familiarizing your child with the dental environment. Make these visits positive experiences, focusing on praise for their bravery.


8. Avoid Using Pacifiers and Thumb-Sucking
Prolonged pacifier use or thumb-sucking can impact the alignment of teeth and the development of the jaw. Gently encourage your child to gradually reduce these habits as they grow.


9. Open Dialogue
Communication is vital. Talk to your child about the importance of maintaining a healthy smile and answer their questions about dental care honestly. Address any fears they might have and reassure them that the dentist is there to help, not cause discomfort.


10. Celebrate Milestones
Mark milestones in your child's oral care journey. Celebrate when they successfully brush on their own or floss independently. Small rewards, like stickers or a special treat, can motivate them to maintain their efforts.


11. Be Patient and Gentle
Children are still learning, and developing good dental habits takes time. Be patient and provide gentle guidance. Avoid scolding if they forget to brush or make mistakes—instead, use these moments as opportunities for learning.


12. Craft a Bedtime Routine
Incorporate brushing into your child's bedtime routine. Brushing before sleep helps remove food particles and bacteria that can lead to cavities during the night.


13. Protect Those Pearly Whites
If your child plays contact sports or engages in activities with a risk of dental injury, invest in a mouthguard. Shielding their teeth during play can prevent painful accidents.

Dr. Cameron Zealand, Pediatric Dentist at North Calgary Pediatric Dentistry:

As a pediatric dentist, my greatest joy is witnessing children grow up with healthy, happy smiles. By nurturing good dental habits from an early age, you're giving your child the gift of optimal oral health that will serve them for a lifetime. Remember, it's not just about teaching them to brush—it's about instilling a positive attitude towards oral care that will stay with them forever. From my heart to yours, I wish you and your little ones all the best on this smile-filled journey. And remember, if you ever have questions or concerns, North Calgary Pediatric Dentistry is here to support you every step of the way. Happy smiles to you all!"

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This site is machine-translated from English, and may have errors in translating the information from English to the language you have chosen. This translation service is provided to encourage communications between the reader and North Calgary Pediatric Dentistry and will not be perfect. There may be errors in the translation including missing or added words, or poor translation of a dental related term or concept. The best way to obtain complete information is to contact us directly. Your questions are welcome, please feel free to contact us. Services are provided in English.

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