Dental hygiene habits in children begin to form early along with other health-related habits. Such as, for example, eating a proper diet and exercising regularly. We know that a healthy diet and exercise can prevent obesity and its medical complications. Likewise, adopting healthy oral hygiene habits can reduce the need for complex dental treatments at other stages of life.
These are the three essential habits to help your child have healthy teeth and gums:
1. Toothbrush
Brushing twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste is essential for oral health. These are the key aspects of brushing teeth:
- Use the appropriate technique depending on age.
- Before the age of 3, parents should brush their children’s teeth. Use only a small amount of toothpaste. Always follow the pediatric dentist’s recommendations.
- Between 3 and 6 years old, children should use a horizontal technique, applying the specific size amount of toothpaste. The GUM KIDS toothbrush has a colored stripe that guides the child to use the appropriate amount of toothpaste.
- After age 6, children should use the rolling technique. The GUM JUNIOR toothbrush has a handle adapted to its age and a color indicator that marks the appropriate amount of toothpaste. Additionally, the light-up version of the brush will light up for one minute to mark the recommended time for the top and bottom areas.
- If you also want to learn the most appropriate brushing technique for you, access our video here.
- Choose the best toothbrush adapted to the child’s age. There are great options when it comes to children’s toothbrushes. Regardless of age, choose a toothbrush with soft bristles.
- Effective toothpaste. Choose fluoride toothpaste with an appropriate concentration depending on your child’s age.
- It’s a fun moment. Have fun brushing your teeth by choosing a fun toothbrush. You can also use one of their favorite songs. This creates a fun atmosphere conducive to effective brushing with an appropriate duration of two minutes.
2. Interdental Cleaning
Interdental cleaning may not be necessary if the child’s “baby teeth” have enough space between them. However, once two teeth touch or the children are older and agile, you can teach them how to floss. To do this, you can choose to start with dental floss applicators. They will make flossing much easier and will serve as the first step to including interdental hygiene in your daily routine.
3. Regular Reviews
No one brushes and flosses their teeth perfectly. Children need to know this and learn the value of a yearly (at least) professional dental cleaning and checkup. You can also consider taking it with you when you visit the dentist so that it becomes familiar with the dental office environment.
Take Charge of your Child’s Health With Specialist of “Maccaro Smiles”
Health is a fundamental human right. From birth, everyone has the right to dental health. Especially given the growing evidence of the relationship between oral health and general health. When you take charge of your child’s health by helping her establish healthy habits, you not only impact her smile; but also on his general health until adulthood. For more information on how Maccaro Smiles can help you and your child in providing healthy teeth and gums, contact us.
