Caring for a child is a lot of hard work. There are a lot of things you have to teach them about the world, including how to take care of their oral health to protect their precious smile. Fortunately, a family dentist in Wichita Falls has made it a little easier by preparing this handy guide for you on teaching your child how to properly brush and floss.
How to Brush Their Teeth
Your child’s teeth should be brushed as soon as they start coming in. You’ll have to help them at first, since they won’t be able to do it by themselves. Simply follow the steps below, and they will grow up with some idea of how to brush:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward the gums of the upper and lower teeth.
- Gently move the toothbrush back and forth along the teeth and gums with short strokes.
- Place the tip of the brush in an upright position to reach behind each and every tooth.
- Brush your kid’s tongue to remove bacteria and freshen their breath.
How to Floss Their Teeth
Your little one should start flossing (or, rather, you start flossing for them) as soon as they have two teeth that touch. Make sure to floss at least once a day. If you don’t do that, bacteria in plaque can build up between the teeth and cause cavities, gum disease, and halitosis, or bad breath. Follow these steps for effective flossing:
- Hold a short length of floss between your thumb and index finger, wrapping it around one finger at each end for better control. Never snap the floss against your child’s gums.
- Move the strong into a “C” shape around the curve of each tooth and gently slide it up and down.
- Use a new section of floss for each tooth so bacteria aren’t reinserted into the mouth.
- If there is enough space between each tooth, you can use an interdental brush if that is easier.
Integrating these healthy habits starts with learning them as a child. By instilling the importance of brushing and flossing at a young age, your little one will grow up knowing how to care for their teeth and gums.
About the Author
Dr. Shelly Strohman is a dentist in Wichita Falls, TX who has more than 13 years of experience and counting. She loves being able to give patients happy, healthy smiles, and that includes treating younger patients and helping them learn how to take care of their dental health. To learn more about how to get your child’s smile healthy, contact Dr. Strohman here or call (940) 613-0299.