Oral hygiene for children
15/10/2013 by Dental DesignTeaching your child proper oral care at a young age is an investment in his or her health that will pay lifelong dividends.
The best way to start, is by setting a good example yourself; taking good care of your own teeth sends a message to your child that oral health is important and is to be valued. Try and make taking care of teeth fun, like brushing along with your child or letting them choose their own toothbrush, there are plenty of novelty tooth brushes on the market to choose from.
You may wish to supervise your children until they get the hang of tooth brushing:
- Use a pea-sized dab of a fluoride toothpaste. Take care that your child does not swallow the toothpaste.
- Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, brush the inside surface of each tooth first, where plaque may accumulate most.
- Clean the outer surfaces of each tooth. Angle the brush along the outer gum line.
- Brush the chewing surface of each tooth.
- Use the tip of the brush to clean behind each front tooth, both top and bottom.
- It’s always fun to brush the tongue!
When should children begin flossing?
Flossing is very important as it removes food particles and plaque between teeth that brushing misses, you should start flossing for your child around age 4. By the time they reach age 8, most kids can begin flossing for themselves, which you should positively encourage.
What are dental sealants?
A dental sealant creates a highly effective barrier against decay. Applying a sealant is not painful and can be performed in one dental visit. Your dentist can tell you whether your child might benefit from a dental sealant.
How important is diet in regards to oral health for children?
A balanced diet is necessary for your child to develop strong, decay-resistant teeth. In addition, to a full range of vitamins and minerals, a child’s diet should include plenty of calcium to build strong teeth.
Frequent snacking may be the biggest enemy against tooth decay in children. The sugars and starches found in many foods and snacks like cookies, sweets, dried fruit, fizzy drinks and crisps combine with plaque on teeth to create acids. These acids attack the tooth enamel and may lead to decay.
Each “plaque attack” can last up to 20 minutes after a meal or snack has been finished. Even a little nibble can create plaque acids; so it’s best to limit snacking between meals as much as possible.
If you would like further information about oral hygiene for your child, give Dentistry@68 a call who will be happy to help you.
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