4 Oral Hygiene Tips for Kids
When it comes to oral hygiene, there are a few tips you should teach your kid at an early age. Here's a quick look at the best oral hygiene tips to teach them.
Overall, tooth decay in children between the ages of two and five has declined since the 1970s. However, around 23% of them still have cavities in their primary teeth, and this number jumps up to over 50% for children between the ages of six to eight.
While children will lose these teeth and start over with permanent ones, it's important for them to get an early start on good oral care. That way, their permanent teeth stand a better chance of staying strong and healthy.
Here are four oral hygiene tips you should teach your kids.
1. Brush and Floss Regularly
Brushing your teeth is key to eliminating dental plaque, which causes not only cavities but also gingivitis and even tooth loss.
Your kids should brush their teeth twice a day; once in the morning and once at night. They can even brush after lunch if possible.
For maximum effectiveness, they need to brush for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste and use the right brushing technique. They should be gentle, reach the gum line, use short strokes, and also brush their tongue. Replace the toothbrushes every three months or when they look worn out.
In addition to brushing, your children should also floss at least once a day.
2. Eat and Drink Less Sugar
Oral bacteria feed on sugar, which then causes cavities. Sugary foods are also attributed to childhood obesity, so it's best to limit your kids' intake.
On that note, they should also avoid acidic foods and drinks. These can erode the tooth enamel, which is the protective layer.
3. Drink Lots of Water
Cavity-causing bacteria thrive in dry environments, so make sure your kids are well-hydrated. Water also has plenty of other health benefits, so it's good to encourage your family to drink water instead of juices and sodas.
Always have water handy, so they're motivated to drink more. For example, give them glasses in the morning and when they return from school, and pack water bottles in their lunches.
4. See the Dentist Regularly
In general, children should see the dentist every six months starting at age one.. Their dentist might suggest a different schedule, and if so follow what they recommend.
Not only can the dentist find cavities and other oral issues, but they can also monitor how your kids' teeth and jaws are growing. This ensures that they'll catch problems before they turn into larger and more involvedones.
Have Your Kids Follow These Oral Hygiene Tips
With these oral hygiene tips, your children will be on their way to good oral health. And by starting dental visits while they're young, they'll learn not to fear dentists and will be more receptive to appointments.
You should also follow these tips to set a good example. When they see their parents practicing good oral habits, your kids will want to do the same!
Do your children need a dental checkup? Then schedule one with us today.
Overall, tooth decay in children between the ages of two and five has declined since the 1970s. However, around 23% of them still have cavities in their primary teeth, and this number jumps up to over 50% for children between the ages of six to eight.
While children will lose these teeth and start over with permanent ones, it's important for them to get an early start on good oral care. That way, their permanent teeth stand a better chance of staying strong and healthy.
Here are four oral hygiene tips you should teach your kids.
1. Brush and Floss Regularly
Brushing your teeth is key to eliminating dental plaque, which causes not only cavities but also gingivitis and even tooth loss.
Your kids should brush their teeth twice a day; once in the morning and once at night. They can even brush after lunch if possible.
For maximum effectiveness, they need to brush for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste and use the right brushing technique. They should be gentle, reach the gum line, use short strokes, and also brush their tongue. Replace the toothbrushes every three months or when they look worn out.
In addition to brushing, your children should also floss at least once a day.
2. Eat and Drink Less Sugar
Oral bacteria feed on sugar, which then causes cavities. Sugary foods are also attributed to childhood obesity, so it's best to limit your kids' intake.
On that note, they should also avoid acidic foods and drinks. These can erode the tooth enamel, which is the protective layer.
3. Drink Lots of Water
Cavity-causing bacteria thrive in dry environments, so make sure your kids are well-hydrated. Water also has plenty of other health benefits, so it's good to encourage your family to drink water instead of juices and sodas.
Always have water handy, so they're motivated to drink more. For example, give them glasses in the morning and when they return from school, and pack water bottles in their lunches.
4. See the Dentist Regularly
In general, children should see the dentist every six months starting at age one.. Their dentist might suggest a different schedule, and if so follow what they recommend.
Not only can the dentist find cavities and other oral issues, but they can also monitor how your kids' teeth and jaws are growing. This ensures that they'll catch problems before they turn into larger and more involvedones.
Have Your Kids Follow These Oral Hygiene Tips
With these oral hygiene tips, your children will be on their way to good oral health. And by starting dental visits while they're young, they'll learn not to fear dentists and will be more receptive to appointments.
You should also follow these tips to set a good example. When they see their parents practicing good oral habits, your kids will want to do the same!
Do your children need a dental checkup? Then schedule one with us today.
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