5 Tips for Teaching Kids to Brush
Summer is a wonderful time for parents to spend more time with their children during outdoor activities and vacations. It's also the perfect opportunity to focus on instilling proper brushing and flossing habits. Here are five essential tips to help children understand the importance of dental hygiene and how parents can support them in overcoming common challenges.
① Ensuring Sufficient Brushing Time
It's common for children to think that a quick brush is better than none, but brushing gently for the full two minutes is far more effective than a few hurried seconds. Children are often motivated by positive reinforcement, so parents can play a vital role by encouraging and praising their kids' brushing efforts. Make it a routine to brush twice a day, and consider brushing together to make it a fun and engaging activity.
② Regular Dental Check-Ups
While children need to learn the responsibility of daily brushing and flossing, it’s the parents' duty to schedule and facilitate regular dental check-ups. These visits are crucial for maintaining oral health and catching any potential issues early.
③ Preventing Cavities
Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease among children. Cavities result from bacterial infections, not just from consuming sweets or "bad" foods. It's the lack of proper cleaning after eating that allows germs to thrive and cause decay. By maintaining regular oral hygiene, no food needs to be off-limits.
④ Appropriate Use of Toothpaste and Fluoride
In 2014, the American Dental Association (ADA) updated its guidelines on fluoride toothpaste for children. [LINK] For children under three years old, the ADA recommends using a smear of fluoride toothpaste no larger than a grain of rice, twice daily (morning and night). After the age of three, children should use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste twice daily.
⑤ Being a Role Model
One of the most effective ways to instill good oral hygiene habits in children is for parents to lead by example. Brush and floss together with your children so they can see and mimic your actions. Bringing them along to your dental check-ups can also help them become familiar and comfortable with the dental environment before their own appointments.
Closing
Brushing teeth doesn’t have to be a dreaded task for children. By following these pediatric brushing tips, you can teach your kids to brush their teeth properly and even enjoy the process. Even if your child hasn't yet grown their teeth, you can familiarize them with brushing by letting them watch you.
Once your child's teeth start to come in, regular dental visits become essential. For a dedicated and experienced dentist committed to providing excellent care for your family, contact Family Care Dental Clinic to schedule an appointment today!
Ensuring Your Safety
Following BC Provincial Health, the College of Dental Surgeons of BC, and BC Dental Association guidance, we've adopted new clinic standards to safeguard our patients and staff:
COVID-19 Pre-Screening : Before in-person appointments, we pre-screen all patients.
Personal Masks : During flu season, bring and wear your mask upon entering.
Hand Hygiene : Sanitizing stations and rigorous hand hygiene protocols are in place.
Enhanced Sanitization : Increased sanitization of high-touch areas and surfaces.
Limited Capacity : We observe physical distancing by limiting clinic occupancy.
Your well-being is paramount. Follow Health Canada and local health authorities' guidance for everyone's safety. Contact us for further questions or concerns. Your understanding and support are greatly appreciated.
Contact Family Care Dental Clinic for Your Consultation!
Our modern and relaxing clinic in North Vancouver is the perfect place for comprehensive dental care for the whole family. And we're just a call, click, or email away! Here's how you can reach us:
Call : (604) 987-3545
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