Pediatric Dentist in Knoxville, TN

At Bryant Family Dental, children of all ages are welcome through our doors. Our pediatric dentists love teaching kids the importance of good dental health. The earlier oral hygiene habits are learned, the better their health for the future. 

Having good oral hygiene is critical not only to your child’s teeth but also to their overall health. Children need healthy teeth to speak correctly, chew their food, and smile comfortably with their friends. Drs. Chelsea and Jim Bryant, your pediatric dentists in Knoxville, focus on preventive care and recommend starting good oral hygiene habits early on. 

So, how do you teach children the importance of caring for their teeth, you ask? Below are some simple tips to get your kids off to a good start.

#1 Supervise Your Kids

The younger the child is, the more supervision they will need. You must ensure they’re correctly brushing their teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day. Observe them while they clean their teeth, give them positive feedback, and assist them when they need help to clean missed spots and hard-to-reach areas.

When it comes to flossing, many parents choose flossing picks, as they are much easier for little hands when it comes to flossing. Be sure to help your children floss the hard-to-reach areas until they grow more comfortable doing it themselves.

#2 Keep a Routine

When we care for our teeth in our morning or bedtime routines, it begins to feel natural to kids. Your kids should brush their teeth at the same time each day. For example, cleaning their teeth can be the first thing they do after putting on their pajamas at night, or it could be the last thing they do before heading to school in the morning. 

#3 Healthy Foods

If children are allowed unlimited amounts of candy, sweets, juices, or other junk food, it does not result in healthy teeth. A healthy diet is one of the essential elements of oral health. Children who eat overly processed sugar-laden foods when they are young tend to crave these foods in adulthood. 

Choose child-friendly healthy snacks, like fruit, cheese, nuts, hard-boiled eggs, and yogurt. We are not saying that sweets are off the table completely. They are great for special occasions and holidays, but always in moderation. 

#4 Be the Best Example

Your child watches you and copies everything you do. The best way to show the importance of good oral health is for you, the parent, to look out for your teeth. Let your children observe you brushing, flossing, and making healthy dietary choices, and they will follow suit.

#5 Biannual Checkups

Everyone, young and old, should visit their dentist’s practice once every six months to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. This biannual checkup is critical to catch problems before they start. Oral disease leads to health problems in the body, such as heart disease, diabetes, and even oral cancers. 

We understand that many young patients are nervous about visiting the dentist. Everyone at Bryant Family Pediatric Dentistry loves to care for infants and children. We take extra time to ensure that our youngest patients feel comfortable and at ease. 

Visit Your Pediatric Dentist in Knoxville, Tennessee

Please schedule an appointment at our dental practice in Knoxville, TN. We hope to be your children’s new pediatric dental care home for the future of their healthy smiles.