How to Teach Your Kids Good Oral Hygiene Skills

Teaching good dental habits

Without your guidance, your children could face a lifetime of tooth decay, gingivitis and gum disease. It’s important to help your child brush their teeth and develop good hygiene skills to form good dental habits. Children aren’t truly capable of brushing their teeth properly by themselves, without your help, until they’re about 6 to 8 years old.

• Limit the amount of sugar, junk food, sodas, fruit juices, lollipops, sucking candies and snacks they eat and drink.
• Brush at least twice a day, for at least two minutes, especially first thing in the morning and before bedtime
• Floss* every day – usually at bedtime
• Visit your dentist every 6 months for professional teeth cleaning .and exam

Toothbrush Shopping

Get the right brush for the age of the child; buy age appropriate, soft bristle, toothbrushes (harder ones can be too abrasive for young children and some adults).

Many children enjoy using battery powered or electric toothbrushes, (if it encourages good dental hygiene, then it’s worthwhile) and they are terrific at getting rid of plaque.

Floride Toothpaste

Consult your dentist or pediatrician before using fluoride toothpaste, especially for children under the age of three.

Infant Toothcare

Brush your infant’s teeth by wetting a soft-bristled, age-appropriate toothbrush with water.

Toddler Toothcare

Brush your toddler’s teeth in the bathroom mirror, so they can watch you brush their teeth.

How to Brush – 5 Simple Steps

Step 1: Place a pea size drop of toothpaste on a soft bristle toothbrush.
Step 2: The parent or child should angle toothbrush at 45 degrees towards the gums of the upper and lower teeth.
Step 3: Gently move the toothbrush in a back-and-forth motion with short strokes along the teeth and gums. Continue along every tooth’s interior and exterior surface in a similar way.
Step 4: The tip of the brush should be placed in an upright position to reach behind the front teeth on the top and bottom.
Step 5: Brush the tongue to remove bacteria on the surface.

How early should children begin to visit the dentist?

Regular dental visits should begin as early as 6 months after the first tooth erupts or after the child’s first birthday, whichever comes first.

*Future blog topic: “Flossing Made Easy”, it’s important to learn how to do so properly, as most people do it incorrectly.

Albrights Dental Practice offers a wide range of dental services, for adults and children, in a relaxed atmosphere, using the latest equipment. Call today to schedule an appointment (610) 821-8024.

ALBRIGHTS DENTAL PRACTICE
(610) 821-8024
2804 Walbert Ave.
Allentown, PA
Serving the Lehigh Valley, PA area