As parents, one of the most important things you can do for your child’s overall health is to ensure they develop good dental habits from an early age. Teaching your child how to properly brush and floss their teeth sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. The importance of proper oral hygiene extends beyond just keeping teeth clean—it helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues that can affect your child’s confidence, comfort, and overall health.
In Saint John, as across the country, oral health is a priority, and starting healthy dental habits early is essential. But as any parent will tell you, getting kids to brush and floss can be a challenge. The good news is that with a little patience, fun, and encouragement, you can teach your child the importance of tooth care in a way that’s both effective and enjoyable. In this blog post, we’ll explore essential tips for brushing and flossing that will help your child develop lifelong healthy oral habits.
1. Start Early: Begin Brushing Before the First Tooth Erupts
Good oral hygiene begins even before your baby’s first tooth erupts. Gum care is a crucial part of early oral health. Starting at birth, gently wipe your baby’s gums with a soft, damp washcloth after feedings. This helps remove bacteria and sugars that can contribute to the development of cavities once teeth begin to appear.
When your baby’s first tooth erupts, typically around six months, it’s time to begin brushing with a soft baby toothbrushand a small amount of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice). Even though the teeth are tiny, they still need regular cleaning to avoid the buildup of plaque and bacteria.
2. Set a Routine: Brush Twice a Day
Once your child has a few teeth, establish a brushing routine that involves brushing twice a day: once in the morning and once before bedtime. Brushing twice daily helps to remove plaque, food particles, and bacteria that accumulate throughout the day, especially after eating sugary foods.
Morning Routine
- Brush your child’s teeth after breakfast to remove the buildup of bacteria that can develop overnight.
- Use a child-sized toothbrush with soft bristles to prevent damage to sensitive gums.
- Apply a small amount of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a pea) to the toothbrush.
Nighttime Routine
- Before bed, brush again to remove the day’s food and plaque. Nighttime brushing is especially important because bacteria and plaque can accumulate overnight and contribute to decay.
- Make sure your child brushes for at least two minutes during both morning and night routines to ensure that every tooth gets cleaned.
3. Make Brushing Fun and Engaging
Kids are more likely to engage in healthy habits when they enjoy the process. Make brushing time fun and engaging with these creative tips:
Use Fun Toothbrushes
- Let your child choose a toothbrush with their favorite characters or colors. Electric toothbrushes that play music or light up for the full two-minute brushing time can also be a fun way to keep them engaged while ensuring that they brush long enough.
Sing a Song
- Create a fun brushing song or use one of the many children’s toothbrushing songs available online. Singing a catchy tune while brushing can help make the experience enjoyable and ensure your child is brushing for the recommended time.
Use a Timer
- A timer can be a great tool to make sure your child brushes for the full two minutes. Many electric toothbrushes come with built-in timers, or you can use a sand timer or even set a timer on your phone to help your child keep track.
Offer Praise and Rewards
- Positive reinforcement can go a long way in encouraging your child to brush regularly. Celebrate each successful brushing session with praise, and consider setting up a reward chart where they can earn small rewards for brushing twice a day.
4. Proper Brushing Technique
Teaching your child the correct brushing technique is crucial for ensuring their teeth are properly cleaned. Here’s how to teach them:
Hold the Toothbrush Correctly
- Demonstrate how to hold the toothbrush with a gentle grip. If your child is old enough to brush on their own, guide them in holding the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to their gums.
Use Gentle Circular Motions
- Encourage your child to brush with gentle circular motions, rather than vigorous back-and-forth strokes, which can irritate the gums and wear down enamel. Brush the outside, inside, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.
Don’t Forget the Tongue
- Gently brushing the tongue helps to remove bacteria and keep the breath fresh. Teach your child to gently brush their tongue after brushing their teeth.
5. Flossing: When and How to Start
While brushing removes surface plaque and food particles, flossing is essential for cleaning between teeth where a toothbrush might not reach. According to the Canadian Dental Association, flossing should begin as soon as your child has two teeth that touch.
Starting Early
- Start flossing your child’s teeth once they have developed enough teeth that are close together. At first, you’ll likely need to do the flossing for them. Use a gentle motion to slide the floss between the teeth, and avoid snapping the floss, as this can hurt their gums.
How to Floss Properly
- When your child is old enough, show them how to floss properly. Gently guide them to use a piece of floss about 18 inches long, wrapping the ends around their fingers and gently sliding it between the teeth.
- Make sure they follow a “C” motion with the floss around each tooth, cleaning both sides. The floss should go under the gumline, but not too deep.
Floss Picks
- For younger children who have trouble with regular floss, floss picks or flossers can be easier to use. These are small, plastic tools with a piece of floss stretched between two prongs. While not as effective as traditional floss, they are a good option for helping younger children get in the habit of flossing.
6. Teach Your Child the Importance of Oral Health
Beyond brushing and flossing, it’s essential to educate your child about the importance of taking care of their teeth. The earlier they understand how their dental care affects their overall health, the more likely they are to develop a positive attitude toward oral hygiene. Here are a few ways to instill good oral hygiene habits:
Explain Why They Need to Brush
- Talk to your child about the importance of brushing and flossing to avoid cavities and keep their smile healthy. Use age-appropriate language and fun examples, like “If we don’t brush the sugar off our teeth, it can make tiny holes in our teeth called cavities.”
Avoid Sugary Snacks and Drinks
- While you’re teaching your child about the importance of brushing and flossing, don’t forget about the role of nutrition in oral health. Avoid sugary snacks and drinks, especially before bedtime, as sugar feeds the bacteria that cause cavities. Encourage healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, and water.
7. Regular Dental Checkups in Saint John
Finally, regular visits to the dentist are an essential part of your child’s oral care routine. The Canadian Dental Association recommends that children have their first dental visit within six months of their first tooth or by their first birthday. These early visits help to establish a relationship with the dentist and ensure that any potential dental issues are caught early.
In Saint John, there are many pediatric dental clinics that offer friendly, kid-oriented services. Regular dental checkups every six months will allow the dentist to monitor your child’s oral health, provide professional cleanings, and offer advice tailored to their needs.
Conclusion
Brushing and flossing are the cornerstones of good oral hygiene for children. By teaching your child proper tooth care habits early on and making the process fun and engaging, you can help them develop a lifetime of healthy habits that will benefit their smile and their overall health. Remember to be patient, positive, and consistent, and don’t forget to schedule regular dental checkups in Saint John to support your child’s oral health journey. With the right guidance and encouragement, your child will grow up with a bright, healthy smile!
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us. Or if you’d like to visit our dental clinic, please find us on Google Maps.
