Children are not always vigilant about dental health. Some may brush poorly. Others may not brush at all. They may also skimp on rinsing and flossing.
Youngsters may not realize that poor dental hygiene will come back to bite them later in life through painful procedures, lost and damaged teeth, and other health problems. It is up to parents to educate them early. They must answer questions like: How often should you brush your teeth? What is the best oral care routine? Should you floss before or after brushing?
What Kids Should Know About Dental Health
Brushing
Parents must teach children the importance of brushing their teeth. Children should brush their teeth twice daily, once in the morning and once at night for two minutes. Parents may purchase a two-minute glass to time brushings and involve kids in self-care.
Children should also understand the best toothbrushing methods as follows:
- Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle towards the gum line.
- Use soft circular motions.
- Brush all surfaces, including the inner and outer teeth, inner cheeks, and tongue.
Flossing
Children should begin flossing their teeth when two teeth touch, typically when they are age 2-3.
In the early stages, parents will floss their children’s teeth for them. However, parents must teach children to floss their teeth as they age, integrating the following methods.
- The floss should be 18-20 inches long.
- Wrap the floss around each middle finger several times.
- Use the thumbs and index fingers to carefully move the floss up and down, bending it into a C shape to bring it below the gum line.
Eat Healthy Foods
Children should beware of sugary foods that wear away tooth enamel and cause cavities. Sticky sweets should be avoided because they don’t wash off teeth easily. Carbonated soft drinks are also a primary cause of tooth decay.
It is difficult to ask kids to avoid sweets, but parents should limit them in their children’s diet by making them “special treats.” They should also require children to brush, rinse, and floss after eating sweets.
Additionally, several foods benefit oral health. Any food that helps produce saliva will keep teeth and gums clean. Dairy products, fiber-rich foods, sugarless chewing gum, and foods with fluoride are recommended.
Encouraging Positive Dental Health with Recommended Products
Parents can further encourage kids to practice good dental health by purchasing products that make oral care fun. They include:
- RiseWell Kids Bamboo Toothbrush: This toothbrush is made with all-natural materials, ensuring your child will not be exposed to chemicals. Its soft bristles remove plaque and massage the gumline without wearing out the enamel.
- RiseWell Kids Mineral Toothpaste: Kids love this toothpaste because it tastes like cake batter. Parents love it because it is toxin-free and contains ingredients that protect and strengthen enamel.
- NOWFoods XyliWhite Kids Toothpaste Gel: This natural fluoride-free toothpaste is made with all-natural ingredients and provides a delicious strawberry flavor.
- Desert Essence Kids Toothpaste Gel: This toothpaste was specially designed for children 6 months to 6 years old. It is safe to swallow and gently removes plaque.
- Eco-dent Gentle Floss Dental Floss Mint: This smooth and light floss gently cleans between children’s teeth. It is made with plant-based ingredients and recyclable packaging.
Dental health is so important. Parents should teach children its value at an early age. With the right products and approach, you will set your kids up for a lifetime of good dental health.
FAQs
Should you floss before or after brushing?
So, should you floss before or after brushing? It is best to floss before brushing. Flossing loosens food residue, and brushing removes it from the mouth.
What is the 2 2 2 rule for brushing teeth?
The 2 2 2 rule states you should visit your dentist twice a year, brush and floss twice a day, and brush for two minutes. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene will help protect your child’s teeth for a lifetime. Good dental care that starts with baby teeth through developmental stages of a child’s mouth will help teach kids how to take good care of their teeth on their own to help them avoid gum disease and protect their beautiful, healthy smile.
Should you brush your teeth before or after breakfast?
Some feel you should brush after breakfast to remove food particles from your early morning meal. However, the latest research shows it’s best to brush before breakfast as it removes plaque-causing bacteria that develop while you sleep and provides a protective barrier over the tooth. It also ensures you remember to brush.
If you prefer to brush after breakfast, do so at least 30 minutes after eating and avoid acidic breakfast foods.
