Brushing your Kids Teeth
We all know how important it is to brush your teeth, but brushing children’s teeth can be a challenge, although it is crucial to establish good teeth maintenance starting from a young age. In fact, starting at 12 months- or one year, you can start using a soft toothbrush with just water to get your child used to the feeling. Starting at 18 months you can start using child toothpaste. Here are some helpful hints for brushing your child’s teeth from 18 months- 6 years:
Use a Small Amount of Toothpaste
We recommend, via research done by the American Dental Association, that teeth should be brushed with just a “smear” of fluoride toothpaste as soon as teeth appear. These new recommendations have also changed advice for older kids and recommend that they continue using a smear until their third birthday. Children between 3-6 should use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
Position Your Child
Either sit your child in your lap, or, for bigger kids, stand behind them. Tilt your child head back so you can see all the surfaces of the teeth. This is important so you can ensure you get all the teeth thoroughly, as most children won’t do it themselves.
Brushing the Teeth
When your brushing the teeth, angle the bristles of the soft childrens toothbrush towards the gum. First, have the child show you the front of the teeth (smiling with all teeth), move the brush in circular motion, cleaning the front of the teeth. Next, have the child open their mouth, and brush the back of the teeth in a circular motion. Then, brush back and forth on the chewing portion, or the top, of their teeth. Lastly, encourage your child to spit!
Where to Get Help
If you are concerned about your child’s teeth, or they’re ready for their first dental exam, usually at age two, Riverbend Dental is here to help. Our expert orthodontists and dental hygienists are the best when it comes to teeth, and we enjoy making your child’s dental visit a happy one! Dr. Patel has dedicated himself to making every kid’s dental visit as cosy and relaxing as we can. To book with us today, visit our website or contact us for more information.