3 Essential Oral Hygiene Tips for Children With Special Needs
Dr. Halum and his team at Dentistry for Children are dedicated to providing children with special needs with compassionate, personalized care, ensuring they have the best possible patient experience. We strive to lay the foundation for healthy, beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. Beyond our practice, consistent at-home oral hygiene is key to lowering the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems. Below are essential oral hygiene tips to keep those young smiles shining bright.
Promoting Long-Term Healthy and Beautiful Smiles
Children with special behavioral, cognitive, physical, sensory, or other healthcare needs are often at a higher risk of developing dental health problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, and misaligned teeth. Good oral hygiene care is key to maintaining healthy smiles between dental visits.
The following are essential oral hygiene tips to keep your little one’s smile healthy and bright:
#1 Establish a Consistent Brushing Routine: Children with sensory sensitivities, physical challenges, or difficulty adapting to new routines may resist home oral hygiene. It is always helpful to brush and floss at the same time each day and establish a predictable routine, so your child knows what to expect.
#2 Experiment with Dental Tools: A soft-bristled brush and bland toothpaste may help certain children with sensory sensitivities. Others may find electric toothbrushes perfect for a thorough cleanse with minimal effort. Our team at Dentistry for Children is happy to recommend adaptive tools and techniques to make oral hygiene more accessible. For example, there are toothbrushes that come with specialized grips or wider handles to help children with motor challenges. Moreover, floss picks or water flossers may be easier alternatives to traditional floss.
#3 Make Dental Care Rewarding: Encouraging your child to maintain good oral hygiene practices can be easier if it is an enjoyable experience. Take your child shopping for a toothbrush and toothpaste with their favorite characters, colors, or flavors. Turn brushing and flossing into a game, or choose a favorite song to play to make the process more engaging. A reward system, such as stickers or small prizes, can also encourage children to care for their smiles.
Supporting Your Child’s Unique Needs
Every child is different, with unique needs. Finding what works best for your little one may take some time and patience. Dr. Halum and his friendly team at Dentistry for Children are here to offer tips and guidance on at-home oral hygiene care to help you turn brushing and flossing time into an effective, rewarding experience.
Special Needs Care Near Me in Highland, IN
Dr. Halum and our kid-friendly team at Dentistry for Children are committed to ensuring every special smile receives the best possible care. We offer comprehensive dental solutions with a gentle, compassionate touch and are happy to provide accommodations to enhance your child’s patient experience. We invite you to call our office at 219-924-5437 to schedule an appointment or use our online form to request one today!