Tips for Teaching Kids to Take Care of Their Pearly Whites
Did you know that by age 3 most kids have a full set of 20 primary teeth? Around age 6, those “baby teeth” begin to make way for permanent, adult teeth.
According to the Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, healthy primary teeth mean healthier permanent teeth — but how do you make that happen without a hassle?
Start empowering your little one with these helpful tips:
- First, let your child choose her own toothpaste from those bearing the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance and pair it with a snappy toothbrush.
- Play a game called, “No More Nasties!” Tell her she wins when the Nasties have all been nabbed. You decide what that looks like, but use this as an opportunity to discuss the importance of a well-brushed mouth.
- Inspire your child to brush for two minutes twice a day as recommended by the American Dental Association. Find fun — and free — apps and videos designed to fit the two-minute time frame. Many are musical, so kids can tune up their teeth as they brush to the beat!
But what happens if, in spite of all that dental diligence, a cavity or other calamity comes?
In such cases, the TAPD recommends that parents bring children to pediatric dentists, who undergo special training so they understand children’s special dental needs and also know how to help avoid issues in adulthood.
To find pediatric dentists in Texas, check out the Careington Dental Discount Plan’s provider list. This important Texas Farm Bureau member benefit gives members and their families exclusive discounted prices on many dental services including access to more than 100 pediatric dentists and dental specialists in the network.
For more information on the Careington Dental Discount Plan or other money-saving Texas Farm Bureau member benefits, visit the member benefits page at http://www.texasfarmbureau.org/memberbenefits.aspx.
Coverage and discounts are subject to qualifications and policy terms and may vary by situation. © 2016 Texas Farm Bureau Insurance
