Young children often want to do everything themselves, even if it takes twice as long or is twice as difficult. Usually, it’s not a big deal since putting on a shirt backwards or wearing the wrong shoe on the wrong foot is an easy fix. However, with oral hygiene, it’s very important to make sure that it’s done correctly so that your children’s teeth do not have problems in the future.
Children can usually learn to brush well on their own by 6 or 7 years old. Until then, here is the best way to brush your child’s teeth.
- Brush at least twice a day – Morning and bedtime brushes are not optional. Brushing at lunchtime can also help, especially if your child loves to eat a lot of snacks throughout the day. Also, don’t share toothbrushes.
- Use the right brush – Make sure the brush you use is meant for a child. You can tell because the handle is usually large, the brush itself is shorter, and the bristles are the softest out of any other toothbrush on the market.
- Brush gently – Using excess force does not help your child’s teeth get cleaner. It actually can be harmful because you can be damaging the teeth and/or the gums if you’re not careful.
- Lie them down on your lap – If you’re toothpaste is okay to be swallowed, you can lie them on your lap you get a much better view of where you are brushing. It’s also easier to control the toothbrush from that angle. If you’re using toothpaste that needs to be spit out, make sure they are standing in front of the sink and spitting out the toothpaste thoroughly.
- Floss – For a while, the gaps between your child’s teeth may be so wide you don’t think it’s necessary to floss, but flossing from early on will teach them the importance of flossing as they get older. It also makes a huge difference on the few teeth that do have food stuck between them.
If you have any questions about how to properly care for your child’s teeth, come to Candlewood Dental Care in New Fairfield, CT. Dr. Lorraine Burio has been treating and educating patients of all ages for over twenty-five years. Make an appointment here or call our office at 203-746-1200.