3 Things To Nip In The Bud ASAP: For Kids And Teens

Posted April 5, 2019

Yes, we know, you could probably come up with a list as long as your arm every single day in terms of things your kiddos are starting to do that you think you might need to nip in the bud. However, sometimes you choose to back off, sometimes you need to become a super enforcer of rules, and sometimes you sure wish someone would just tell you exactly what to do. Good news! Today, our Dallas, TX team is pleased to do just that: We have collected a quick bunch of choices you might recognize your kids starting to make that are best quickly stopped before they become bad habits!

#1: Your Kiddo Is Taking Huge Bites

You don’t necessarily love seeing your child or teen shove as much food as possible into his or her mouth … however, sometimes you can understand. Food is delicious, so trying to eat a lot at once makes sense. Fortunately, we can help you with this one. The truth here is that when kids become accustomed to taking very large bites, this can become a bad habit because it can take its toll on your kids’ jaw health. First, remember that opening very wide when eating can strain jaw joints (called TMJs). Next, remember that forcing one’s jaws into excessive motion for difficult chewing causes strain, too. For long-term jaw health and to avoid TMJ disorder down the line, nip this one in the bud!

#2: Chewing On Ice

Just about everyone does this from time to time. However, when it becomes something your child does frequently, it’s something to stop before it’s a bad habit. Whether your child tends to eat through the ice left at the bottom of a beverage cup or if your child is heading to the refrigerator to grab a cup of ice for snacking, this is dangerous for teeth! Ice is extremely hard, so over time, it can lead to erosion and even fractures. The constant chewing and excessive pressure needed can also lead to jaw joint concerns. Skip the ice and instead, seek out a different healthy, much softer, easier-to-eat snack.

#3: Snacks Right Before Bedtime

Water right before sleep is just fine. However, food will encourage issues like tooth decay, so talk with your kids and especially teens about this. Nighttime snacking before dental hygiene? No problem. However, once teeth are brushed, it’s no more food until morning!

Help Kids Form Good Smile Habits

Guide your children and teens toward the development of good, long-lasting smile habits that will benefit them in the long run. For help with this seemingly tall order, remember to ask for assistance during visits! Schedule a visit with your Dallas, TX children’s dentist, Dr. Marr at Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda by calling 214-321-4880. We proudly welcome patients from Dallas, TX, and all surrounding communities, including Casa Linda and more.