We’re officially on the candy, sweets ‘n treats roller coaster that marks the season between Halloween and Christmas. While a single day may not be the make-or-break for your kids’ dental health, two months definitely has an impact. The key to healthy teeth is to make sure you have a consistent dental health routine at home. Do that and you’ll be fine no matter how many sugary confections come your way.

Here are 6 tips for ensuring your kids’ teeth are healthy over the holiday season and more importantly, all year long.

How to keep the kids teeth healthy over the hols

1. Establish and maintain a proper oral health routine

Make brushing nightly before bed a non-skippable habit. If flossing is too much, try flossing the back teeth only and do a full floss on Sunday evening. Then add a short morning brush to your kids’ routine. Once it becomes a habit, you’re good for life! And, of course, visit your dentist twice a year.

2. Drink more water

Water is a fantastic tool in the fight against harmful bacteria and tooth decay. Water is not acidic and does not harm teeth at all. It improves saliva production, which naturally cleans teeth of debris and restores the mouth to a healthy ph balance. 

>> How to prevent tooth decay from hijacking your family’s oral health.

3. Have a healthy diet

A healthy diet is critical to getting a healthy mouth. Mouth-healthy foods like fruit, vegetables, nuts and calcium-rich items can all strengthen teeth.

4. Replace worn out toothbrushes

It can be challenging to know when to replace your child’s old toothbrush with a new one. If your child’s toothbrush bristles are frayed or pluming outward, then it’s time for a new toothbrush. A good rule of thumb is to replace your child’s toothbrush every three months.

>> 7 tips for the your child’s visit to the dentist

5. Make dental hygiene fun for kids

Let’s face it, kids don’t exactly jump up and down at the prospect of brushing and flossing, so make it fun!

Here are some fun ideas: Brush and floss together (have the kids mimic what you do); sing a fun song; use books and fun videos related to oral hygiene. Another way to keep your child’s interest alive is with a new, fun toothbrush. Opt for a colourful, soft-bristled brush or one with your child’s favourite cartoon character.

6. Keep dental visits upbeat and positive

Maybe you have had some negative dental experiences. Try not to let them influence your child. Making brushing, flossing and dental check-ups a positive experience can help to keep your child excited about proper oral care.

This post is sponsored by VM Community Builder: PDG Pediatric Dental Group

At PDG Pediatric Dental Group, they provide pediatric dental services for infants, children, and adolescents as well as orthodontic services for children, teenagers, and adults. Their doctors are specially trained to manage children’s fears and apprehensions in a positive manner. Four convenient locations: Vancouver, Richmond, Delta/Surrey, Coquitlam. https://www.pdgdental.com/