Oral Hygiene Basics: Take Care of Your Child’s Teeth

Helping your child practice oral hygiene basics is essential for tooth health, comfort, and overall well-being. Their teeth play a crucial role in their smile and help break down food while they eat. This article will explore how, as a parent, you can help your child maintain excellent oral hygiene and establish healthy habits they can implement throughout their life.

Maintain good oral hygiene

Most people learn oral hygiene basics when they are young. However, over time parents may forget the details or become complacent. Parents may find it helpful to refresh their memory before attempting to teach their children. Here are some pediatric dentist-recommended oral hygiene basics that can protect a child’s teeth and ensure a healthy smile for years to come.

Promote daily flossing

Children should floss before they brush their teeth, as flossing can loosen trapped food particles that they may then brush away. Ensure the child uses a new section of waxed thread in each space between the teeth to prevent moving bacteria around. Help them as needed until they can do it on their own.

Encourage daily brushing

Teach children the importance of brushing their teeth twice daily, once in the morning and once before bed. They should brush for at least two minutes using a toothbrush with soft bristles. Make sure they brush all surfaces of their teeth, including the backs, and emphasize the importance of using a gentle technique to help them from hurting their gums.

Introduce mouthwash

While not essential, using a kid-friendly mouthwash can complement a child’s oral hygiene routine. Mouthwash can help fight bad breath and kill bacteria. Parents should teach their children how to rinse with mouthwash once a day, following the instructions on the bottle.

Schedule regular dental visits

In addition to home care, regular dental visits greatly contribute to a child's oral health. Schedule professional cleanings and oral exams with a pediatric dentist every four to six months. The dentist can also give the child preventive treatments, such as a flouride treatment. These methods can protect the child's teeth from tooth decay in hard-to-reach areas, such as their back molars.

Do not ignore a child if they experience toothaches, bleeding gums, or other oral symptoms. Pain and bleeding gums are often signs of a problem requiring immediate attention. Make an appointment with our pediatric dentist as soon as possible to diagnose and treat any issues.