Here at Kids First Pediatric Dental Care, we know and understand the importance of good preventive care. This includes your children brushing and flossing their teeth properly. Good preventive care is really important to ensure a healthy mouth with healthy gums and teeth.
It is always important to set a good example for your children. They will follow your lead, so you should brush and floss regularly while they are watching. They need to learn from you how important good dental care is. If your children are interested in brushing, give them a toothbrush and teach them to brush their own teeth. You will still need to help, but at least they are showing an interest. Most children are able to brush their teeth properly by the time they are six or seven years old.
It is important for your children to brush their teeth at least twice daily to help remove plaque and food particles that get stuck to the teeth. It is recommended that your children brush their teeth for at least two minutes, though most children rush through this time.
We suggest you make brushing fun. You can try different flavored toothpastes and different brushes with special characters on them. Maybe you can sing a special song while brushing to help your children want to brush longer.
You need to make sure your children reach every side, including the inside and outside, of every tooth. To help keep your children’s breath fresh, you should also encourage brushing of the tongue.
The American Dental Association recommends that people floss their teeth at least once daily. Flossing is done to remove plaque and food particles that get stuck in between teeth. It also gets rid of any plaque that the toothbrush missed or just can’t get to! Children who don’t floss will have more problems with tartar, cavities, and even gum disease.
Though many children hate flossing, it is really necessary. They can use dental floss or even a pick that is specially designed for flossing. Though flossing shouldn’t be painful, it can feel different and awkward, but it is important for children to keep at it. After a few days or weeks, it will become part of their dental routine.
If you have any questions about brushing or flossing your children’s teeth or anything else related to home care, please contact us today at (740) 588-KIDS .
