What type of bear has no teeth? A gummy bear! Making toothbrushing part of your child’s daily routine from the start not only helps to prevent painful problems like tooth decay but also forms healthy habits which can set them up for a lifetime of smiles. Children might not enjoy it, but there are ways to make it enjoyable! As parents, we know that our kids’ health is a top priority – this includes taking care of their teeth. Getting your little ones excited about brushing their teeth can sometimes be a challenge! Why is it so important?
Brushing teeth is essential for preventing cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues. Although the baby’s teeth eventually fall out, they still need proper care. Plus, teaching children about good oral hygiene from a young age can help them develop lifelong healthy habits that contribute to their overall health.
Oral hygiene starts from birth. You can start wiping baby’s gums with a moist piece of gauze or a small washcloth. Once a tooth comes in, you can begin brushing it with an infant-sized, soft-bristled toothbrush & a tiny smear of toothpaste. Once teeth begin touching each other, you can start flossing.
As your child grows, brushing teeth might be a bigger challenge. Dr. Veronica, a dentist in Arizona suggests a few tips for turning oral hygiene for kids into a more pleasant experience.
- Start with a comfortable position: Sitting, standing, or upside down!
- Make the experience more playful by using a children’s toothbrush. Perhaps with a picture of their favorite cartoon. Allow them to choose their favorite at the store, this can make the experience special.
- Smear fluoride toothpaste containing between 1,350ppm & 1,500ppm of fluoride (check label).
- Brush all sides of each tooth and gums, using gentle circular motions.
- While brushing you can sing a song to your child! Make sure to set a timer for 2 minutes.
- After brushing, and spitting out the leftover toothpaste they don’t need to rinse out their mouth.
Common Challenges & Solutions
- Resistance to Brushing: Children often resist tooth brushing, especially if they’re tired or distracted. Stay patient and consistent, and try to make it part of the daily routine so they know it’s non-negotiable.
- Fear of the Dentist: Regular visits to the dentist from age one or two help normalize dental care and prevent fear later on. It’s a good idea to make these appointments fun and stress-free.
- Difficulty Flossing: Many kids struggle with flossing, perhaps they find it uncomfortable or difficult. Start early with floss picks designed for kids., or consider a water flosser to make the process easier.
- Sugary snacks & drinks: Kids often prefer sugary snacks and drinks, which can lead to cavities. Help them brush well after eating and provide healthy snacks that your child enjoys. Make water the go-to drink.
Final Thoughts
Brushing your baby or toddler’s teeth might seem daunting, but with patience, consistency, and a little creativity, it becomes an enjoyable and essential part of their daily routine. By starting early, making brushing fun, and using age-appropriate tools, you are laying the groundwork for healthy teeth & gums.
Children are more likely to follow the example of others. Brush your teeth in front of them so they can observe you. By observing you they can understand that brushing is important for everyone, not just them. Children adapt more easily to routines. Routines can help them develop skills, feel safe, and build healthy habits. So, have fun! Silly songs, watch tooth-brushing videos, and make silly noises! Perhaps you can create a toothbrushing chart & add stickers to show their progress.
While brushing at home is important, regular dental checkups are just as important. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends visiting the dentist by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears. By visiting the dentist early, the dentist can monitor your child’s oral health, answer questions, and early intervention before issues become serious. Regular checkups can reinforce the importance of oral hygiene and create a positive association with dental visits.
FUN FACTS & MYTHS
- Everyone’s teeth are different. Teeth are like fingerprints; not 2 people in the world can claim to have the same teeth.
- Tooth enamel is the hardest bone in your body. The enamel is the reason why teeth last forever. It protects the inner part of the tooth, which is called dentin.
- A dentist invented cotton candy!
- It is a lot easier to smile than frown! It takes around 13 muscles to smile while frowning requires 50 muscles.
- Myth #1: Cavities are only caused by sugar
- Sugar is a significant factor in cavity formation, but it is not the only one. Foods like crackers, bread, and potato chips can also break down into sugars & acids that lead to tooth decay.
- Myth #2: Thumb sucking & pacifiers will always cause dental issues
- Thumb sucking is a natural reflex for many children. It is a soothing technique & it’s unlikely to cause long-term issues during toddlerhood. The habit isn’t harmful unless it goes beyond the age of 3.
Related Links
8 Tips for Teaching Kids to Brush Their Teeth
Brushing Children’s Teeth: In Pictures
