FOR THE NEXT MONTH, we’re going to trace the timeline of your healthy teeth. We’ll be breaking it up into four age categories. This gives us a chance to share some age-specific concerns and tips with you. Even if YOU don’t fall into today’s age category, you certainly know and care for someone who does. So pass the good oral health along by sharing this post! The first age group we want to address is from 1-20 years old, including kids and teens. To help you prioritize, we’ve divided the information into must-do’s, should-do’s and could-do’s.
Must Do’s:
- Establish a dental home for kids early on, and stick to regular checkups. When kids are comfortable with their dental team, it sets a pattern for a lifetime of great oral health.
- Set up an at-home oral hygiene routine. Remember, everyone should brush for 2 minutes, twice a day.
- ALL ATHLETES should wear a mouth guard for sports! Skaters, wrestlers, ballers… that means you.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_r9V4YbnQd0?rel=0&w=543&h=305]
Should Do’s
- Orthodontic evaluations should happen at about age 7, in case there’s a need for early intervention treatment.
- Dental sealants can provide a shield against tooth decay that will last through childhood.
- Healthy-teeth eating habits start now! That means minimal sugar, soda, and snacking, and lots of vegetables.
Could Do’s
- For teens, increasingly conscious of their appearance, whitening can be a great boost.
- Exciting characters, colors, and flavors on toothbrushes and paste can make brushing and flossing fun for reluctant kids.
Use This As A Launchpad…
Now, this is by no means a comprehensive list of every dental concern between the age of 1 and 20! But we hope it gives you some good reminders, and a starting point for building your own dental goals. Remember to watch for the future posts about each age group. And if you have any follow-up questions, let us know! Comment below, privately on our Facebook page, or give us a call.
