Going to the dentist can be stressful and scary for anyone, but often even more so for kids. It’s important to introduce proper oral care to young people at an early age, as the more familiar they are with it, the easier it will be for them to maintain healthy oral habits. There are a few good ways to introduce your child to a proper oral care routine, but probably the best one of all is explaining it by using the Tooth Fairy. Much like how Santa Claus motivates kids to behave during the year in hopes for presents in December, the Tooth Fairy can be a great role model for encouraging them to keep their teeth clean.
When telling your child about the Tooth Fairy, you might remind them that she only exchanges money under their pillow for clean teeth. Legend has it that she is always on the hunt for freshly fallen teeth to add to her castle, so if they want to get paid for their tooth it has to be of the best quality. Another interesting fact that might get their attention, is a poll conducted by Delta Dental which found that the value of a lost tooth is closely related to the U.S. economy. There has been a fairly heft increase in payout, rising from a little under $1.50 in 1998, to more than $3.50 in 2013.
Once the incentive is in place, the next step would be to make an appointment at your family dentist in Stuart. The most important part is getting him or her to start building a routine that can set them up for a lifelong commitment to having a healthy mouth. Taking them at the youngest age possible is a good way to get them acclimated to going to a dentist, and a figure like the Tooth Fairy can be a great motivator.
Even leaving your child a letter under their pillow from time to time can be another way to remind them that the Tooth Fairy is always watching. There will be phases when kids don’t lose any teeth at all, but a gentle reminder from the Tooth Fairy can keep them excited to keep up with their good habits. Making regular bi-yearly appointments for teeth cleanings at your family dentist in Stuart can also be very important for helping them stay on track with their oral care.