When do you start looking for a children’s dentist near you? Before you start asking relatives and browsing across search engines, learn a little more about how to look after your infant’s dental care.
Should You Brush Your Baby’s Teeth as Soon as They Appear?
Yes, brushing your baby’s teeth as soon as they erupt is advised. Early teeth brushing helps your infant develop appropriate oral hygiene practices and improves dental health. It lets you pick the right supplies, create a routine, support gum health, and avoid tooth decay.
Choosing the Right Brush and Toothpaste for Your Child
Selecting an appropriate toothbrush and toothpaste is critical to guarantee good oral hygiene and improve your child’s dental health. Here are some things to think about:
- Toothbrushes: Select a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head suitable for your child’s age. The soft bristles are gentle on their gums and teeth, while the small head allows for better maneuverability in their tiny mouths. Consider choosing a toothbrush with a comfortable grip or features that make brushing more engaging for your child, such as colorful designs or their favorite characters.
- Toothpaste: For children under three, use a smear of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. Fluoride helps strengthen the tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. A pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste can be used for children three years and older. Look for toothpaste specifically formulated for children, which often comes in appealing flavors to encourage regular brushing.
- Fluoride content: Check the fluoride content in the toothpaste. Fluoride is an essential mineral that helps protect against cavities. It strengthens tooth enamel and reduces the risk of tooth decay. Ensure that your toothpaste contains appropriate fluoride for your child’s age group.
- ADA seal of acceptance: Look for toothpaste and toothbrushes with the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of acceptance. This seal indicates that the product has met the ADA’s standards for safety and effectiveness.
- Age-appropriate features: Consider the age and developmental stage of your child. Some toothbrushes have features like timers or musical tunes to make brushing fun and encourage proper brushing habits. Choose brushes and appropriate toothpaste for your child’s abilities and preferences.
Remember to replace your child’s toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles become frayed. Please encourage your child to brush their teeth twice daily for two minutes each time and supervise their brushing until they have developed the coordination to do it independently.
It’s always a good idea to consult our dentist in West Edmonton for personalized recommendations on choosing the right brush and toothpaste for your child, as they can provide guidance based on their specific dental needs.
Tips for Brushing Children’s Teeth
Tip #1: Choose the right time. Find a time when your child is calm and not too tired or distracted. It can be in the morning, before bed, or after meals.
Tip #2: Use a suitable toothbrush. Select a soft-bristled toothbrush specifically designed for children. Ensure the toothbrush is age-appropriate and has a small head to fit in the mouth comfortably.
Tip #3: Apply toothpaste. Use a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste the size of a rice grain for kids under three years old. Use a pea-sized quantity of fluoride toothpaste for kids three years and older. Don’t let your kid swallow the toothpaste.
Tip #4: Positioning. Stand behind your child or position yourself at their side, facing a mirror if possible. It allows you to have a clear view of their mouth while brushing.
Tip #5: Brushing technique. Hold the toothbrush against your gums at a 45-degree angle. Short, circular strokes back and forth with the brush should be used, paying incredibly close attention to each tooth’s chewing, inner, and exterior surfaces. To prevent causing their gums discomfort, be meticulous yet gentle.
Tip #6: Time duration. Brush your child’s teeth for at least two minutes. Use a timer, sing a song, or use a fun brushing app to make it more engaging and help them understand the appropriate brushing time.
Tip #7: Encourage spitting, not rinsing. Teach your child to spit out the toothpaste after brushing, but avoid rinsing their mouth with water immediately. It allows the fluoride in the toothpaste to remain on their teeth and provide protection.
Tip #8: Supervise and assist. Children may need assistance brushing until they develop the necessary coordination and skills, usually around six or seven. Ensure that they are brushing all areas of their mouth correctly.
Tip #9: Make it fun. Make brushing a positive experience by involving your child in choosing their toothbrush and toothpaste. You can also brush together as a family to set a good example.
Tip #10: Regular replacement. Replace your child’s toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles become frayed.
Dental Check-Ups for Children
Children’s dental exams are essential for preserving their oral health. These routine examinations allow dentists to monitor how kids’ teeth grow, spot problems early on, and administer the required preventative and therapeutic procedures.
Parents can protect their children’s dental health and put them on the road to lifetime oral health by prioritizing pediatric dental exams at Lessard Dental. When you and your family visit our dentist, they will evaluate your kiddo’s oral cavity and be able to educate them on how to look after their smiles.