Children’s Correct Toothbrushing Introduction
National Children’s Dental Health Month is in February. Almost every parent recognizes the importance of regular tooth brushing for their child’s dental health, but not all parents are aware of the best way to assist their child in brushing or the best toothbrushes to use. Although some parents prefer electric toothbrushes to traditional ones (and electric toothbrushes have many advantages), we recommend that you demonstrate correct hygiene with a manual toothbrush before moving on to an electric model. We recommend gentle filaments for both manual and electric toothbrushes for children.
Parents can begin using a soft children’s toothbrush with only water on infants as young as one year old; some dentists recommend routine cleansing of teeth even earlier (as soon as teeth emerge) if the infant is able. Then, when your infant is 18 months old, you can switch to a fluoride-free toothpaste for children. We recommend that you assist your child in brushing his or her teeth at least twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed, to remove and prevent the plaque buildup that causes tooth decay and periodontal disease.
Correct Brushing Method
The following instructions will help you consistently brush your child’s teeth effectively:
- Place a pea-sized dab of low-flouride toothpaste on a children’s toothbrush with gentle bristles. You shouldn’t overuse it with the quantity of paste you use; more is not preferable in this instance.
- If your infant is small, place her on your knee with her back to you. If your infant is of sufficient height, you may stand behind him. This will enable you to see all of the tooth surfaces.
- Angle the toothbrush filaments towards the molars at a 45-degree angle. To clean the outer surfaces of the teeth and gums, move the toothbrush in small, circular motions.
- Brush the interior surfaces of the teeth and gums using the same circular motion.
- Utilize a moderate forward-and-backward motion when brushing the mastic surfaces of the teeth.
- Encourage your child to thoroughly rinse out the toothpaste after you’ve brushed every surface of his or her teeth. After this, it is not necessary for your child to cleanse his mouth, as the remaining toothpaste will continue to defend against tooth decay.
We recommend at least two minutes of brushing per session. Since cavities form most frequently on the surfaces of the rear molars, the majority of this time should be spent on these surfaces. Your example will go a long way towards encouraging them to develop healthy dental habits for life. In addition to a healthy diet, daily flossing, and regular dental checkups, children will have all the tools necessary to maintain a healthy smile for the rest of their lives.
Concerning Facts Regarding Children’s Oral Health
Helping your children brush their teeth correctly has enormous implications. The following statistics and anecdotes (from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other sources) demonstrate the importance of proper grooming and overall excellent oral hygiene in children:
- Untreated cavities are present in nearly 20% of children aged two and older.
- About 20% of four- and five-year-olds have dental decay; by age 17, over 85% of young individuals have some form of tooth decay.
- Asthma is five times less likely to affect children than tooth decay.
- Each year, children worldwide miss over 51 million school hours due to dental-related issues.
- Children’s self-esteem and academic performance can be negatively affected by poor dental hygiene, making them less likely to smile or engage in discourse.
- Inadequate dental hygiene can contribute to poor nutrition and chronic sleep disorders in children.