As an adult, you may think the only people being impacted by the current stay-at-home orders are you and your peers. Unfortunately, that is not the case at all. Your children are also feeling the effects of COVID-19 and the need for practicing social distancing. Unable to go to school or interact with their friends daily, it is likely they’re feeling bored. As a result, they may be more prone to making poor food choices and avoiding their necessary oral hygiene routine. What do you do? Hear from a children’s dentist in Bergenfield who can offer 4 fun and exciting ideas to keep your child busy and prevent tooth decay and cavities from forming while being stuck at home.
Cook and Bake Together
What kid doesn’t love baking cookies? Whether it’s getting messy in the kitchen or enjoying the finalized product, cooking and baking is a great way to keep your little one busy and entertained. But are cookies the best option? Probably not, but that doesn’t mean you still can’t engage in this exciting activity. Instead of opting for chocolate chip cookies, why not try out a healthier alternative? There is a multitude of options available in various cookbooks and online that you and your child can make. Not only will this be a great way to make memories, but it will produce delicious food that won’t leave your child with a mouth full of cavities.
Make Oral Hygiene a Family Affair
Worried your little one isn’t brushing, flossing, or rinsing properly…or at all? Turn your morning and/or nighttime oral hygiene ritual into a family affair. The internet has many fun-filled activities that are designed to encourage good dental habits. Find one that suits you and your family and let the games begin!
Turn on the Music
Does your child like to dance? Are they moving to the beat anytime a song comes on? If so, add this into the mix while they’re performing their oral hygiene routine. Kids oftentimes forget to brush for a full two minutes, so adding a song that encourages them to dance and have fun while brushing their teeth can do the trick! Just make sure that the song is at least two minutes long so that they effectively remove any harmful bacteria and food particles from their smile.
Read Books Promoting Good Oral Health
Throughout the day or before going to bed, reading a book about the Tooth Fairy or that promotes good oral habits is a great way to educate and keep your child excited about maintaining a healthy smile. Reading a book that details why it’s important to practice good oral hygiene or how the Tooth Fairy comes to retrieve strong, healthy teeth will not only engage them but also help create a sense of pride in their smile.
These few, simple suggestions can help your little one stay on the path to better oral health. If you’re worried about their teeth and gums, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist for help. He and his team can offer additional tips and advice that will keep their smile looking and feeling its best all year-round.
About the Author
Dr. Darren Tong is a trusted, certified pediatric dentist in Bergenfield who treats patients of all ages. Completing his Aesthetic Advantage Certification at New York University, he went on to complete his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Columbia University School of Dental & Oral Surgery. He and the team at Smile More Kidz can help your little one maintain a healthy, beautiful smile even while stuck at home. Worried they will suffer from cavities and tooth decay because of poor oral habits, let Dr. Tong offer some tips and advice to avoid unnecessary treatments and procedures in the future. For help or assistance in keeping your child’s smile looking its best, or if you’re using this time to look for a “dentist near me,” contact us at (201) 453-4863.