A young boy sitting on a yellow chair while a woman holds a toothbrush.

Healthy Oral Habits

A healthy smile means good oral hygiene at the dentist and at home. Here are our best recommendations to keep your child's smile healthy and their confidence shining.

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Healthy Home Habits,
Happy Smiles

Encouraging good oral habits in your child starts with making dental care fun and part of their daily routine.

A man sitting in a chair talking to a little girl.

Be the Big Kahuna, Lead the Way

Show your child that you prioritize your own oral health. Take them with you when you brush and floss your teeth and make it a routine. Remember, you are their role model!

Sprinkle in Some Fun

Make brushing and flossing a family activity, demonstrating proper technique and turning it into a game. Create a brushing chart with stickers or small rewards for consistent brushing and flossing, or use child-friendly toothbrushes with their favorite characters.

Good Vibes Only

Maintain a positive attitude about dental visits, presenting them as a normal, important part of staying healthy rather than something to fear. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to establishing lifelong good oral habits. Don't over explain dental visits, but use child-appropriate language in a way they can understand.

Small Habits, Big Results

Good oral habits are more than just protecting against cavities. Here are the key benefits of how good oral habits can make a big impact in your child's life.

Lifelong Healthy Smiles

Establishing good oral habits early sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Children who learn proper brushing, flossing, and dietary habits are more likely to maintain these practices into adulthood.

Improved Overall Health

Good oral health is linked to better overall health. Proper dental care prevent infections, reduces inflammation, and contributes to better heart health as children grow into adults.

Boosted Self-Confidence

A healthy, bright smile can significantly boost your child's self-esteem. When children feel good about their smiles, they're more likely to engage confidently in social situations and express themselves freely.

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3 Steps
Towards Awesome
Oral Health

Establishing good oral hygiene habits at home is crucial for your child's dental health. Here are some key practices to implement:

Consistent Brushing and Flossing

Teach your child to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Make it fun by using timers, apps, or songs to ensure they brush for the full two minutes.

Balanced, Tooth-Friendly Diet

Encourage a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, which can lead to tooth decay. Offer water as the primary beverage to help rinse away food particles.

Regular Dental Check-ups

Schedule semi-annual dental visits for professional cleanings and check-ups. These visits help catch any issues early and reinforce the importance of good oral health habits.

How We Create
Stellar Visits

Comfort meets quality pediatric dentistry

Kid-Friendly Waiting Area

You know that feeling when you first arrive in Hawaii and you instantly feel at ease? We've designed our office to reflect that. Our waiting room is a little slice of paradise, designed to transport you and your keiki (children) to the islands. Surrounded by tropical decor and the soothing sounds of Hawaiian music, you'll feel the stress melt away as soon as you step inside.

A living room filled with furniture and a blue wall.
Three children sitting at a table playing with toys.

Retro Toys

Take yourself back to the good old days. Our patients (and parents) love our collection of simple retro toys, including water toys, Etch-A-Sketch, and books about teeth and Hawaii.

Entertainment During Treatment

Your child's favorite characters make treatment go easier. When needed, we offer streaming of shows and movies during filling procedures, providing a helpful distraction for our young patients.

A young girl sitting in a dentist chair.

FAQs

Find answers to common questions about healthy oral habits.

How much fluoride does my child need?
What diet promotes good dental health in children?
When should my child wear a mouthguard?
When should my child stop using a bottle?
Is it normal for my child to suck their thumb?