It’s June in Oklahoma, which means the days are getting longer, warmer, and many children are settling into their long awaited summer vacation. It’s also officially Oral Health Month from the American Dental Association, and this year’s theme is “Lead By Example.” As a parent, how can you ensure that you’re a good oral healthcare role model for your children? Today, an El Reno dentist is here to give you 3 easy tips that will make you the perfect example for your family.

Tip #1: Walk the Walk

As recommended by the American Dental Association (as well as any dentist you could talk to), a person’s oral homecare routine should include three basic things: brushing twice a day, flossing once, and regularly visiting the dentist for checkups and cleanings.

Simply making sure that your children brush their teeth and regularly see their dentist is great, but diligently taking care of your own teeth is the best way to encourage them to look after their oral health between dental appointments. When they consistently see mom and dad brushing their teeth twice a day and flossing, they are much more likely to keep up with their own routine.

Tip #2: Talk the Talk

When was the last time you talked about oral health with your children? If you’re like most parents, the extent of the conversation was, “Did you brush your teeth yet?”

A little education can serve as a great motivator. Share with your children that their oral health is actually directly connected to their overall health. Science has revealed that when bacteria is allowed to accumulate in the mouth, due to a lack of brushing and flossing, it can actually enter the body and cause a variety of systemic illnesses, such as diabetes, heart problems, and even dementia! You don’t need to frighten your little ones, but letting them know just how important their oral health really is can go a long way in getting them to brush and floss every night.

Tip #3: Don’t Be a Stranger To Your Dentist

Summer is an excellent time to schedule your child’s routine dental appointment, and it’s also the ideal time to schedule your own as well! This will show your child just how important visiting the dentist really is, plus it will give you a chance to ask your dentist about you and your child’s oral health (assuming you have one who’s able to treat your whole family). By openly maintaining your own relationship with professional dental care, it will be much easier for your child to do so now and as they grow older and become more independent.

Of course, these tips are effective no matter what month it is, and following them will ensure you and your family enjoy strong, healthy smiles and bodies as time goes by. By being a good example, you’ll not only benefit from optimal oral health yourself, but you’ll also feel pride in seeing your children do the same, allowing them to grow and thrive as the years go by.

About the Author

Dr. Adam Cohlmia is a family dentist in El Reno who has dedicated his life to safeguarding the oral health of patients of all ages. At his practice, he always takes time to educate both his child patients and parents so that everyone knows how to keep their teeth healthy between appointments. To learn more ways to keep you and your family’s oral health in great shape this summer, Dr. Cohlmia can be easily contacted through his website.