Do you want your kids to have healthy and happy smiles? Of course you do! Oral hygiene is an important part of overall health in children and young adults, but it can be a bit overwhelming to keep track of everything.
From knowing when they should start brushing their teeth twice daily, how often they need flossing and dental visits, or what habits are good for their mouths – parents have a lot on their hands!
But don’t despair – here we’ll list the top five tips for keeping your kids’ teeth clean and ensuring those huge grins stay nice & bright. Read on for our guide to best practices in dental care for kids!
How Can I Teach My Kids Proper Tooth Brushing Techniques?
Teaching your kids proper tooth brushing techniques is essential for maintaining their oral health. Here are some effective strategies to help you teach your kids how to brush their teeth properly:
Start Early
Introduce tooth brushing as soon as your child’s first tooth erupts. This helps establish a routine and familiarity with dental care from an early age.
Lead by Example
Children often learn by observing their parents or caregivers. Brush your own teeth alongside your child, demonstrating the correct technique and making it a fun and interactive activity.
Use Child-Friendly Toothbrushes and Toothpaste
Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush specifically designed for children. Let your child pick out a toothbrush in their favorite color or featuring their favorite character. Also, use a child-friendly toothpaste with a mild flavor that they enjoy.
Proper Brushing Technique
Teach your child the correct brushing technique. Use these steps as a guide:
a. Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums.
b. Use short, gentle back-and-forth or circular motions to clean the outer and inner surfaces of the teeth.
c. Make sure to brush the chewing surfaces of the teeth as well.
d. Encourage your child to brush for at least two minutes, ensuring they reach all areas of their mouth.
Supervise and Assist
Until your child has developed the dexterity to brush independently (around the age of 6 or 7), supervise their brushing sessions and offer assistance as needed. This ensures that they are effectively cleaning their teeth and forming good brushing habits.
Make It Fun
Turn tooth brushing into a fun and enjoyable activity. Sing a song, play a two-minute timer or use a tooth brushing app that engages your child. Consider using toothbrushes with lights or music to make it more entertaining.
Reinforce Regular Brushing
Emphasize the importance of brushing twice a day, in the morning and before bed. Create a reward system or use a sticker chart to track their brushing habits and provide positive reinforcement for consistent brushing.
Teach Oral Health Importance
Explain to your child why brushing is important for their oral health. Discuss the role of brushing in preventing cavities, gum disease, and maintaining a healthy smile.
Schedule Dental Visits
Regular dental check-ups are crucial for children. Take your child to the dentist for routine examinations and cleanings. This helps familiarize them with dental visits and reinforces the importance of oral health.
Remember to be patient and supportive during the teaching process. Each child develops at their own pace, so adapt your approach to suit their needs. By instilling proper tooth brushing techniques early on, you can set your child on the path to maintaining good oral hygiene and a healthy smile throughout their lives.
Which Toothpaste and Mouthwash Are Best for Children?
When choosing toothpaste and mouthwash for children, it’s important to consider their specific needs and age range. Here are some guidelines to help you select the best products:
Toothpaste
- Age-Appropriate: Look for toothpaste specifically formulated for children. These toothpastes often have milder flavors and lower fluoride concentrations suitable for their age. For children under three years old, use a smear of toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. For children three years and older, a pea-sized amount is typically recommended.
- Fluoride Content: Fluoride is important for strengthening tooth enamel and preventing tooth decay. Check that the toothpaste contains an appropriate amount of fluoride for your child’s age. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends fluoride toothpaste for children as soon as their teeth start erupting.
- ADA Seal of Acceptance: Look for toothpaste with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This seal indicates that the toothpaste has met the ADA’s criteria for safety and effectiveness.
Mouthwash
- Age Consideration: Mouthwash is generally not recommended for children under six years old, as they may have difficulty properly rinsing and spitting it out. Consult with your child’s dentist to determine if mouthwash is appropriate for their age and oral health needs.
- Alcohol-Free: Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash for children, as alcohol-based mouthwashes can cause discomfort and may not be safe for young children if accidentally swallowed.
- Fluoride Mouthwash: If your child is at higher risk of tooth decay, their dentist may recommend a fluoride mouthwash. This can provide an extra layer of protection against cavities. However, it’s important to follow the instructions and dosage recommended by the dentist.
How To Deal With Your Children’s Dental Anxiety?
As parents, we understand that bringing our children to the dentist can be a daunting task, but it is an essential one for their overall health and well-being. Children who have positive experiences with dentists are more likely to have good oral hygiene habits and will have less anxiety about future visits. Hence, it is crucial to create a positive atmosphere before, during and after a dental visit.
One of the primary ways to ensure a positive dental experience for your child is to start early. As soon as their first tooth appears, it is advisable to take your child to the dentist for a routine checkup. This will help your child to become familiar with the dental office and procedures.
Another way to make dental visits less intimidating is by involving your child in the process. Before the appointment, talk to your child about what to expect during the visit and the importance of taking care of their teeth. During the exam, you can ask the dentist to demonstrate dental procedures in a child-friendly manner. This will help your child to feel more comfortable and less fearful.
Playing educational games that teach your child about dental hygiene and its importance can also make a visit to the dentist more fun and engaging. Children’s storybooks and videos that feature dental checkups can also be helpful in preparing your child for their visit.
Need help? Visit Edgecliff Dental Care today!
