Did you know bad breath can also be transmitted from parents, just like high cholesterol and high blood pressure?
Cavities aren’t contagious. However, the oral bacteria responsible for dental disease is contagious. If parents share utensils, drink from the same cup, and kiss, or share toothbrushes, it can spread bacteria to their children’s teeth. Children can spread bacteria to their children by sharing the same toys and eating the same food.
Are you unsure how to protect your entire family against dental disease? Here are some tips to make oral hygiene a family affair:
* Establish good oral health habits. To prevent cavities, you can clean young children’s teeth using water. You can start brushing your child’s tooth with a pea-sized amount toothpaste around 12 months. When the gaps between the teeth close, floss. Sing a song to teach older children how long it takes to brush their teeth. “Happy Birthday”You can also set a timer. Make sure you floss and brush your teeth.
* Use probiotics. An effective way to help your child with their oral care is to use probiotics. EvoraKidswww.myevorakids.comA chewable that contains a special mixture of oral probiotics for children (called ) floods the mouth and produces good bacteria. The good bacteria attaches to the chewing surfaces, such as crevices and fissures in the mouth. This is a great way to help support your teeth health. EvoraPlus Plus, a probiotic that is also available for parents, allows them to get involved in the process.www.myevoraplus.com. These products support healthy teeth by balancing the bacteria within the mouth.
* Visit the dentist regularly. The dentist is more likely than a parent to see problems with children’s teeth or gums. It is easier to track if everyone can go to the dentist at the same time every year. Adults and children should visit their dentist once every six month for a cleaning and check-up.
* Choose tooth-friendly foods. Make sure to choose foods that stimulate saliva flow. Make sure children know to wash their teeth with water after they eat. Avoid hard, chewy snacks and foods that stick to teeth.