Often times, the topic of dental hygiene can get lost in that long list of things we mean to teach our kids. It can slip through the cracks as we call out “look before you cross the street,” or “wash your hands before you eat!”  There is a saving grace however: it’s never too late to have a conversation about good dental hygiene, and it makes a lasting impact.

So how do we have this conversation without putting our kids to sleep? A great way to get started is to explain what happens when we forget to brush. Many doctors will refer to plaque as “sugar bugs” when they are explaining it to a child. It is the sugar we eat that draws in these bugs, and it is the plaque on your teeth that comes out of them. Good brushing can prevent this, as well as making healthy food choices.

As the kids are brushing, teach them the 2 rule:  two minutes, twice a day. It’s great to brush with them, showing them how to make small circles around each tooth.  Flossing can occur once daily, and you’ll want to show your child how to make a “C” shape around the tooth.

As your child starts to lose their teeth, avoid yanking a loose one. Kids have come up with elaborate techniques over the years, such as slamming a door with floss tied to the door knob and tooth, but this should not be encouraged. To avoid broken roots and possible infection, let your child know its okay to gently wiggle the tooth but nothing more than that.

As you celebrate sweet little moments with your child like the loss of the first tooth, or a visit from the Tooth Fairy, remember to also slip in these lessons to ensure they a have long lasting, beautiful smile.