While children are known for being cute, curious, and precocious, they are not usually thought of as being excited about developing proper oral hygiene habits. A daily regimen of brushing in the morning and night is essential for preventing tooth decay as well as a host of other oral infections, and there are several ways to help your child develop this habit. Here’s a brief guide to how you can teach your young child to brush properly.
When Should I Start Brushing My Child’s Teeth?
It’s best to begin brushing your child’s first tooth as soon as it starts poking out from the gumline and to begin flossing their smile as soon as they have two adjacent teeth touching each other. This will prevent your child from developing early oral infections and help them get used to the sensations of proper dental hygiene. It’s also important to schedule your child’s first pediatric dentist’s appointment around their first birthday or when their first tooth begins to emerge, whichever comes first.
Demonstrate Excellent Oral Hygiene
Young children establish many lifelong behaviors by imitating adults, and you can use this to help them develop excellent hygiene practices by making brushing a family affair. Brushing alongside your child will allow them to observe your technique and learn by example. Make sure you help them understand that you are brushing using short, gentle, circular strokes to avoid scratching your enamel and that it is important to brush for at least two minutes each time. It’s also a great idea to use this time to teach them to floss.
Explain Hygiene in a Way Your Child Can Understand
Small children may have difficulty wrapping their heads around concepts like bacterial infections and the long-term consequences of poor oral hygiene. To help them understand why brushing is necessary, explain the problem in the form of a story. For example, you can tell them that terrible sugar monsters are always trying to eat their teeth and the only way to slay these horrid beasts is to fight them with weapons like toothpaste and dental floss.
Establishing excellent oral hygiene habits early is the best way to help your child enjoy a healthy smile for life. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best ways to teach your child proper dental care.
About the Author
Dr. Meghan Thorburn earned her dental degree and completed her residency at the University of Texas at Houston. She is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Her office in Fort Worth offers pediatric preventive, restorative, and emergency dentistry. To learn more about teaching your child proper oral care, contact her office online or dial (682) 327-1133.