We recently talked about helping kids enjoy good oral health with checkups and cleanings, as well as fluoride treatments and dental sealants. But your children also need to manage their oral hygiene from home! In today’s blog, your Livonia, MI, dentist talks about how to properly brush and floss.
Picking the Right Toothbrush
At different ages, kids will need very different kinds of toothbrushes. For babies, you could use cloth or one that fits over your finger. For toddlers, you need an age appropriate one and may need to assist them with the cleaning process. As your kids age, they will need ones designed to handle their dexterity levels for ease of use. Your little ones can use electric or manual, just as long as they’re using them each and every day! We do recommend soft bristles, as this prevents inadvertent damage to the outer enamel.
Fluoride Toothpaste
Kids of all ages benefit from fluoride, a naturally occurring mineral that has been shown to strengthen the outer enamel to prevent cavities. The packaging should have fluoride on it, or the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance on the box. Use a rice sized blot to clean their teeth, older children can use a pea-sized amount. Fluoride is also found in tap water, and our team could offer fluoride treatments during your child’s checkup to help provide a layer of protection from tooth decay.
Apps, Songs, and Other Fun Timing Options
When kids brush, they should do so for about two minutes, to ensure they’re treating every available surface properly. This can seem like a very long time for a child. You can use a sand timer, or find a fun video or song. This helps them stay focused and makes sure they’re cleaning their teeth correctly. They should do this in the morning and then again at night right before bed.
Flossing
As soon as there are teeth sitting next to each other, flossing is necessary. When food particles are caught between teeth or in the gum line, brushing may not reach them. Young children can use a pick, older kids floss tape. Clean up and down each side of every tooth each evening.
If you have any questions about how to brush and floss properly, or if you would like to schedule a checkup and cleaning visit for your children, then contact our team today.
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT CHILDREN’S DENTAL HYGIENE?
Our team wants to help little ones enjoy strong, bright, and healthy smiles with good homecare. For more information on how to help children enjoy good oral health, then call the office of James Stewart, DDS in Livonia, MI, today at (734) 425-4400. You can also visit our office at 15873 Middlebelt Rd Suite 100 Livonia, MI 48151.