Guilt is one of those nagging feelings that every mother feels. And with Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and mommy blogs sometimes we only see the positive side of motherhood and not the more difficult parts. Of course we don’t advertise when we were too burnt out to read “Goodnight Moon” for the sixth time in a row in one night. We all know the kids will be just fine with the five times we read the book (even though we skipped some pages). However, there might be one small routine you are forgetting that makes a big difference that I think might shock you.
What your doctor doesn’t tell you about your child’s teeth:
Okay, I bet you think you can guess what I’m about to tell you regarding your child’s teeth. I am a dentist after all. But, here’s a hint…it isn’t any of these things (though they are important).
- Brush your kids’ teeth twice a day.
- Take them to the dentist by their first birthday
- Don’t put them to bed with a bottle
- Avoid sugary snacks that stick to the teeth.
Cavities and decay can all be prevented with the routines I listed above, but the #1 source of the bacteria causing cavities in your kids’ teeth is YOU! That’s right – bacteria from your teeth are making their way to your kids while you talk to them, read stories and interact. These bacteria will pass as easily to your child as pink eye. The enamel on baby teeth is much more susceptible to decay and the bacteria causing the cavities is coming from you.
It’s ok to be a busy mom!
We know you might have to cut bedtime short once in awhile, but do your kids a favor and go brush and floss to remove all those bacteria from your mouth. At Light Dental Studios’ five locations, we can have your entire family in and out within an hour. We also offer evening and Saturday hours so you don’t have to miss any of those busy mid-day activities or work. You make the time to run to the doctor for antibiotics for your strep throat – why not for the bacteria living in your mouth? Come see us. We’d love to help you set up a routine that works for your family.
Stop by the Northwest Women’s Show March 20-22. We’ll be there in the allmomdoes section and we want to meet you. Stop by and guess how much floss is in the jar for your chance to win a dental gift basket valued at over $300+. Plus, don’t forget to grab your NW Women’s Show special to receive a $25 comprehensive exam and x-rays good for any of their 5 locations! You’ll be the mom of the kids with the brightest and healthiest smiles!
