As parents, we understand the importance of instilling good habits in our children from a young age, and dental health is no exception. A crucial aspect of maintaining optimal oral hygiene is regular dental check-ups, but these visits can often be a source of anxiety for both parents and children alike. However, with a little preparation and the right approach, you can set the stage for a successful dental visit that is stress-free and even enjoyable for your child.
As a parent, you have a lot on your plate - creating a safe and nurturing environment, offering constant support and guidance, and managing everyone's social and emotional wellbeing. But, when we invest so much of ourselves into our work without supporting our own self-care, we may start experiencing burnout, and that impacts not only us, but the whole family system.
Are you familiar with the "Annual Noisy Toys List?” I wasn't until recently, and it surprised me in a couple of ways. Looking back to when my children were babies and toddlers, they received numerous toy gifts, many of which were quite noisy. I vividly remember a fire truck with an incredibly loud siren – so loud that I chose not to insert batteries for the sake of my own peace! It never occurred to me at the time to think about the potential impact of noise on my children’s hearing.
As parents, we want nothing but the best for our children. From their first steps to their first words, we cheer them on every step of the way. But sometimes, those little habits like thumb-sucking, pacifier use, or finger-chewing can become a source of concern. While these habits are common among young children, they can affect oral health if they persist for too long. As a pediatric dentist, I have seen them all. Here is some advice I have given to parents over the years on managing these habits.
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