Your child’s dental hygiene should begin when he or she is a baby. Around the age of one or two, begin using a soft child-size toothbrush. At least twice a day, you should clean your child’s teeth with water. You can also use a small amount of fluoride-free toothpaste. This toothpaste is completely safe for your youngster to eat. You can switch to a fluoride-containing toothpaste once your youngster is old enough to spit it out. Use only a little amount. Teach your youngster how to distribute it evenly across their teeth, gums, and tongue. Ask your doctor or dentist to show you how to brush your child’s teeth properly.
Until your child is 7 or 8 years old, he or she will most likely need assistance brushing their teeth. They can start using a larger toothbrush around this time. Brushes should be replaced every 3 to 6 months or when the bristles are worn. Brushing teeth for two minutes is recommended for children. Flossing is an important component of your child’s dental hygiene routine. At least once a day, teach your child to floss. To make things easier, you can buy floss with a handle.
It’s also a good idea to teach your child to brush his or her tongue. This aids in the reduction of microorganisms in the mouth. Make sure your youngster brushes his or her teeth before going to bed, after all eating and drinking (excluding water) has been completed. Brushing twice a day, first in the morning and again before bedtime, is the typical rule for both children and adults. Many adults, even moms and dads, are unaware that the American Dental Association (ADA) suggests that we all brush our teeth for two minutes each time. As a result, it’s a good idea to encourage your kids in the habit of brushing their teeth in front of the sink – especially the rear molars, where initial cavities are common.
How can I encourage my young children to brush their teeth properly?
Supervision and role-modeling are essential for preschool and elementary school children. Parents often need to assist their children until they are six or seven years old, but some children may need monitoring until they are ten or eleven years old to guarantee proper brushing. Preschoolers are keenly aware of what their parents are doing, so make sure they see you flossing and brushing on a daily basis!
What Should My Child’s Toothpaste Be?
When it comes choosing toothpaste for their children, parents have a lot of alternatives. It’s easy to become overwhelmed by all of the options. Fluoride toothpaste is recommended for children aged three and up because it helps to strengthen tooth enamel. We normally recommend a toothpaste made for children under the age of ten because the abrasives contained in adult toothpaste may be too harsh for them. Most essential, seek for the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval on the toothpaste you choose: this indicates that the product has been tested for safety and effectiveness, and that it provides the cavity protection that your child need.
If you have any queries regarding which toothpaste to use, talk to your dentist. After the age of six, you can also ask your dentist about using an oral rinse for added protection.
