Most children aren’t born with the instinct to keep clean. In fact, many are born with the exact opposite instinct; they WANT to be dirty all the time. Little boys especially have a fondness for dirt and mud. Some little girls do too. We have all see countless photos online of children in their high chair with spaghetti or fruit loops pasted to their face. Children do not think twice about being dirty. It is for this reason that we have to teach our children about good oral hygiene.
At a young age, children need to be taught how to keep their mouth nice and clean. Tooth decay is the single most common infectious disease affecting U.S. children.
Did you know it was infectious?
If you child never picks up the bacteria that eats away at their teeth, they could possibly be cavity free all their life! Good oral health always begins with parents teaching their children how to brush and why they need to brush. There are many good books that can assist you in teaching your child good oral habits. Today, We have compiled a list of our favorite oral health books. Check them out from your local library this week!
1) Brushing Well (Dental Health) by Helen Frost – This book will help transition your child into independently brushing his or her teeth. It has illustrations for your child to replicate and is written for a child who is the perfect age to begin brushing on their own.
2) I Know Why I Brush My Teeth (Sam’s Science) by Kate Rowan & Katharine McEwan – This is a good book for your older, curious child who asks “why do I need to brush my teeth?” This book is rather “wordy” and contains a lot of facts about oral health.
3) My Tooth Is About To Fall Out (level 1) (Hello Reader) by Grace Maccarone and Betsy Lewin – This is a great book if your child is close to losing a tooth. It helps a child understand why their tooth is going to fall out and what will happen after it is gone.
4) Barney Goes To The Dentist by Publishing Lyrick – Read this book to your child before their first dental visit. The familiar Barney character could help reduce the fear of your child’s first dental visit.
There are a variety of great oral health books out there! Look and you shall find. Remember, it is your responsibility to teach your child about the importance of brushing and flossing!