Looks definitely aren't everything, but they do play a role in how performers feel. If your child is into dance and musical theater, they're naturally going to be in the public eye. To make sure they feel and look their best on stage, it's a good idea to instill the right habits in them so they can take center spotlight with confidence. One of those habits is proper dental hygiene.
Consistent Dental Visits
Consistency is so important when it comes to success with anything. This is especially true for those dealing with maintaining a beautiful set of teeth. If your child is afraid of the dentist, dental visits might seem ideal to skip. However, you don't want to get into that habit. Find ways to make the experience enjoyable. Pick a great dentist that's sensitive to the needs of your child.
Proper Brushing
If your child loves to smile and be on stage for an event like a dance recital, show them how to clean their teeth properly every day. Make sure your child has a toothbrush with straight, soft bristles, and replace their toothbrush every 3-4 months. Teach proper brushing technique, and set a timer so that they know how long to brush their teeth.
Flossing
Flossing is important because it is easy to get a lot of food stuck in between the teeth. When this happens, it's a lot easier for plaque to build up, which can lead to potential cavities. This is especially true for the teeth that are further back in the mouth. If flossing seems to be too challenging or causes discomfort, an electric water flosser that uses water to irrigate and cleanse in between the teeth may be a better option.
Limiting Sweets
Sweet treats like candy and soda can harm your child's teeth. Try limiting the amount of candy and sweets in the house. From a young age, children exposed to it will grow accustomed to eating natural sugars that are found in fruits. As they eat more natural, whole foods, they'll be less likely to crave the artificial options. This not only helps their teeth, but can help them feel healthier overall by making better snack choices.
Remember that children are very impressionable. They will emulate what they see you do. If you are intentional about taking care of your own teeth, it will be a little easier to help them do the same. When you are the perfect example of what a performance-ready smile looks like, you'll be able to instill that treasure in your children.
Resources:
Teeth Brushing For Kids: Three Strategies For Proper Technique | Colgate
Dental Treatments | Bender Dental Care
How Sugar Causes Cavities and Destroys Your Teeth | Healthline