CLEVELAND — If you’ve ever wrestled a toothbrush into the hands of a reluctant child, you’re not alone — but the effort is worth it. The habits children develop around dental care in their earliest years can shape their oral health for a lifetime. That message is at the heart of National Children’s Dental Health Month, observed every February, and one pediatric dentist at Akron Children’s says prevention really does start at home.
“We want kids to have a positive start in life to their dental experiences and understand the importance of taking care of their teeth and gums,” said Dr. Brian Martin, a pediatric dentist at Akron Children’s. “Prevention and developing simple, everyday routines and habits will get your kids off to that great start.”
Those routines don’t need to be complicated. Dr. Martin recommends brushing teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between teeth daily, eating healthy foods while limiting sugary beverages, and visiting the dentist at least twice a year…