Helping Children Develop Good Oral Hygiene Habits

Good oral hygiene habits are important for children to develop early in life to prevent future dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease.

As a parent or caregiver, you can help your child establish good oral hygiene habits that will last a lifetime. The following tips can help you teach your child the integral part oral hygiene plays in overall health:

Start early: It is never too early to start teaching your child an oral hygiene routine. As soon as your child's first tooth appears, you should begin cleaning it with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a tiny amount of toothpaste. This simple task can lay the foundation for good habits as your child grows.

Brush twice a day: Children should brush their teeth twice a day, for two minutes each time. Make brushing a fun activity by playing music or singing a song while they brush. You can also let them choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste flavor to make it more enjoyable. Teaching a child that dental hygiene isn’t a chore can go a long way in ensuring lifelong good oral hygiene.

Use the right toothbrush: Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles that is the right size for your child's mouth. Replace the toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed. As your child grows, speak with your dentist about the best brush for your child’s specific needs. At Elite Care Dental, we can help you and your child choose the correct brush depending on whether they’re in braces or have sensitive teeth.

Floss daily: Once your child has two teeth that touch, you should begin flossing their teeth daily. You can use floss picks or a floss holder to make it easier for them. As with brushing, turning flossing into a game or a fun activity will make it more likely your child will continue the practice as they grow.

Limit sugary foods and drinks: Sugary foods and drinks can cause tooth decay. Encouraging your child to eat a balanced diet and limit sugary snacks and drinks, and doing so yourself, can help lessen the possibility of future dental problems. When your child does consume sugary foods or drinks, have them brush their teeth afterward or rinse their mouth with water.

Visit the dentist regularly: Regular dental check-ups are important for maintaining good oral health. Your child should see the dentist every six months for a cleaning and check-up. At Elite Care Dental, we can help you set up a schedule based on your child’s development stage and oral hygiene needs. This will help catch any dental problems early on and prevent them from getting worse.

Lead by example: Children learn by example, so it's important to model good oral hygiene habits yourself. Brush and floss your own teeth in front of your child to show them that it's an important part of daily life. Children like routine and making oral hygiene part of your family’s routine will set your child up for a lifetime of good oral hygiene habits.

Helping children develop good oral hygiene habits is important for their overall health and well-being. Starting early, brushing twice a day, using the right toothbrush, flossing daily, limiting sugary foods and drinks, visiting the dentist regularly, and leading by example are all important steps to help your child establish good oral hygiene habits that will last a lifetime. Contact Elite Care Dental today to make a plan for regular check-ups and oral health monitoring for your child, and yourself as well!