Do you remember putting a baby tooth under your pillow at night and waking up in the morning with eager anticipation to see how much money the tooth fairy had left in place of that tooth?

Do your children carry on this tradition?

I remember those loose baby teeth, hanging on by a thread, my tongue pushing them this way and that.

I remember going to sleep wondering what the tooth fairy would leave for me.

I remember the joy when I discovered a quarter under my pillow.

But as adults, losing teeth is not an event that calls for celebration!

How can we keep our teeth in good health?

Dentists recommend that you:

•        Brush your teeth twice a day
•        Floss daily
•        See your dental care professional at least once a year
•        Limit snacks, especially sugary ones

Do you have a favorite brand of toothpaste or mouthwash?  The shelves in the grocery and drug stores are loaded with many different brands of toothpaste, mouthwashes and other products used for oral hygiene.  How do we know which are good for us and which can actually harm us?

Parents have an especially important job when it comes to helping their children make good oral hygiene a habit.  Even before children have teeth, they can be brushing their gums with a very soft brush with a very small head.  Keep toothpaste out of reach, as well as any other oral care products.  If toothpaste is used, the parent should put it on the brush.  Make up a brushing-our-teeth song and sing it while your child brushes.  Before bedtime and also after breakfast are two important times for young children to brush their teeth.  Pediatricians often recommend that parents use a clean soft damp cloth to wipe off a very young child’s gums and teeth.  Check with your pediatrician or dental care professional for more tips that will keep your child’s mouth and teeth healthy.

Brushing teeth should become an established part of your child’s bedtime routines.  Another important part of that routine is the bedtime story.  There are so many books available…which ones should you choose?  For summaries of 100 picture books every young child should hear, you can pick up a copy of Show Me How! Build Your Child’s Self-Esteem Through Reading, Crafting and Cooking, now at more than 50% off for a limited time only on my website or on Amazon.  Give yourself and your child a gift this holiday season that will build self-esteem, develop literacy skills and strengthen the parent-child connection long after the wrapping and ribbon are thrown away.

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