Children's Dental Health Journey
As a dentist here in Ottawa and a member of the Woodpark community, I know that keeping kids’ smiles healthy is every parent’s goal. Since our son was born in 2022, I’ve learned firsthand that building kids' dental habits takes patience and creativity. I’d like to share some helpful tips from my experience, so you feel confident in your child’s dental health journey.
1. Start Early with Dental Visits
When Bryan’s first tooth appeared, it was a reminder of how quickly dental care becomes part of a child’s life. It’s usually recommended to schedule a child’s first dental visit by age one.
This initial visit serves as an introduction for your child, helping them feel at ease while also guiding parents on the do’s and don’ts of early oral health care. Starting early not only helps kids feel comfortable at the dentist but also allows us to monitor their teeth and gum development.
2. Build Healthy Habits at Home
As a dentist and a dad, I know that keeping kids’ teeth healthy starts at home. Brushing twice a day is essential, and with little ones, it helps if you make it fun. In our family, we sing songs and make brushing a game to keep it engaging. I remember he didn’t like a specific toothbrush, so I bought one that looked like an alligator, and he loved it. Make it fun, and you’ll be able to clean their teeth properly!
By the time they’re around 8, they should be able to brush on their own. However, we begin building those habits early.
Good nutrition is just as important. We keep sugary snacks to a minimum and try to include tooth-friendly foods like veggies, fruits, and dairy, which all help strengthen teeth and gums.
3. Routine Dental Check-Ups are Essential
Just like adults, kids need regular dental check-ups. Routine visits help monitor their teeth as they grow and let us catch any small issues before they become bigger problems. It’s recommended to schedule these visits every six months to keep their smiles in top shape.
As a dentist in Ottawa, I’ve seen how much confidence regular dental care can give to kids. At Horizons Dental Care, we focus on making each check-up a learning experience and answering parents’ questions so they feel supported every step of the way.
4. Preventive Care: Sealants and Fluoride
Preventive treatments, like sealants and fluoride, can be big helpers in keeping cavities away. Sealants are a thin, protective coating applied to the grooves of back teeth, keeping food and bacteria from getting trapped and, therefore, causing decay. Fluoride treatments strengthen enamel, making teeth more resistant to decay.
Fluoride is a mineral that helps harden the outer layer of teeth, called enamel. Applied directly during treatments, fluoride strengthens enamel, making it more resistant to acids and bacteria that can lead to decay. This added protection helps prevent cavities and keeps teeth healthy over time.
These simple treatments are a big part of the care to keep kids’ teeth healthy and, indeed, help avoid bigger dental issues down the line.
5. When to Think About Orthodontics
As kids grow, orthodontics often becomes part of their dental health journey. On their regular dental check-ups, we’ll spot any alignment issues early and assess the need for orthodontic treatment. For some kids, early orthodontic care can help make treatment easier and more effective.
Orthodontics is essential for dental health, not just for a straight smile. Aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. A correct bite also prevents issues with chewing, speech, and jaw strain. By aligning teeth and bite, orthodontics supports long-term oral health and a functional smile.
6. Make Dental Care Positive and Fun
As a parent, I know firsthand how important it is to make dental care a positive experience for kids. Our child already sees brushing as part of our daily routine. Some days are harder than others, of course. But making it fun with songs and encouragement, we can celebrate their efforts every step of the way.
Supporting Your Child’s Smile
As a proud member of the Woodpark community and a dentist in Ottawa, I understand how important it is for parents to feel confident about their child’s health.
At our practice, Horizons Dental Care, we make a child’s first visit warm and welcoming, so they feel safe and cared for right from the start. Setting that positive tone early helps kids see dental visits as a normal and positive experience. Good luck, and remember that we’re always here to welcome your family as new patients.
Editor's Note - This blog post from by Dr. Gustavo Azevedo, dentist, founder of Horizons Dental Care, and proud Woodpark community resident. Horizons Dental has sponsored several of the Woodpark Community Association events. If you want a guest blog post for your local business, please email woodpark@woodpark.ca and let's talk.
Making it fun makes all the difference!