The new year is the perfect time for fresh starts—and that includes your child’s dental health! At Big Grins Pediatric Dentistry in Fort Collins, Colorado, we are passionate about helping families build healthy habits that lead to strong teeth, confident smiles, and positive dental experiences.
From toddlers to teens, we provide high quality children’s dental care in Fort Collins. This sets the foundation for lifelong oral health. Here’s how you can help your child maintain a healthy smile all year long:
- Start with a refresh to their daily routine (ahem…do I hear New Years resolution?)
A consistent routine is essential for maintaining excellent oral health for children.
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Use the appropriate amount of toothpaste for your child’s age- just as one of Big Grins Kid Experts as to how much is right for your kid.
- Begin flossing once teeth start touching – that includes the little ones too!
Parents should assist or supervise brushing until children can brush thoroughly on their own—typically around age 7 or 8 AND can tie their shoes or complete fine motor skills independently.
- Make Brushing and Flossing Fun
Positive dental habits start with positive experiences. Making oral care enjoyable helps reduce dental anxiety in children. We strive to make every appointment stress free for them and YOU! But this starts at home!
- Let your child choose a fun toothbrush.
- Play a two-minute song during brushing.
- Use a reward chart to encourage consistency.
These small steps help reinforce great kids’ dental hygiene habits at home.
- Limit Sugar to Help Prevent Cavities
Nutrition plays a big role in cavity prevention for kids.
- Limit sugary snacks, gummies, and frequent snacking.
- Encourage drinking water instead of juice or soda.
- Offer tooth-friendly snacks like cheese, yogurt, fruits, and vegetables.
Healthy choices help protect your child from tooth decay and support overall wellness.
- Keep Up with Regular Pediatric Dental Visits
Routine dental checkups are key to maintaining children’s oral health, even when everything looks fine.
At Big Grins Pediatric Dentistry, your child’s pediatric dentist in Fort Collins can:
- Detect cavities early.
- Monitor dental and jaw development.
- Provide professional cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants.
- Establish a dental home for your child.
- Provide any emergency care necessary – we are always on call!
Most children benefit from visiting a northern Colorado pediatric dentist every six months.
- Protect Growing Smiles During Sports
If your child participates in sports or active play, protecting their teeth is important.
- Use mouthguards for contact sports!
- Wear helmets for biking, skating, and scootering.
Preventing dental injuries is always easier than treating them.
- Lead by Example as a Family – and a New Years resolution for YOU too!
When parents prioritize family dental care in Fort Collins, children are more likely to value brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits. Making dental care a family routine builds confidence and trust.
- Set a Smile Goal for the New Year
Simple goals—like brushing twice a day without reminders or flossing every night—can motivate kids and create lasting habits that support a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Schedule Your Child’s Appointment at Big Grins Pediatric Dentistry
Start the new year with a healthy, happy smile! If it’s time for your child’s next checkup—or if you’re looking for a friendly and experienced pediatric dentist in Fort Collins, CO—the team of Kid Experts at Big Grins Pediatric Dentistry is here for you.
📞 Call our Fort Collins office today at 970-407-1020 or 💻 schedule your child’s appointment online at www.gobiggrins.com to give your child the gift of excellent dental health in the new year. We’re proud to care for families throughout Fort Collins and the surrounding communities—and we can’t wait to see your child’s big grin! 🦷😁