Is your little one avoiding the dentist? Do you have a child who has been having some difficulty with dental cleanings?
For your child to have clean teeth, they have to brush their teeth every day. However, many kids hate brushing their teeth, or they don’t know how to do it properly. The good news is that you can teach them how to brush their teeth!
Brushing teeth for kids can be a little challenging, but we’ve got some tips to get you started. Before you know it, your child will be begging to brush their teeth.
Apply the Right Amount of Toothpaste
Most pediatricians recommend using a pea size amount of fluoride toothpaste for kids under the age of three. For kids between the ages of three and six, a pea size amount is still recommended, but a pea size amount of non-fluoride toothpaste can be used instead if your child prefers it.
For kids over the age of six, the amount of toothpaste to use depends on the size of their toothbrush head. A good rule of thumb is to use an amount of toothpaste that is about the size of their toothbrush head.
Move the Brush Gently
Brushing a kid’s teeth gently is important. The reason being is that this helps to remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums. When these are not removed, they can cause cavities and gum disease.
Bacteria in plaque produce acids that can eat away at tooth enamel, causing cavities. Making sure that they brush their teeth gently ensures that they don’t accidentally damage their teeth and gums.
Hold the Toothbrush in a Vertical Position
When it comes to brushing your teeth for kids, you must hold the toothbrush in a vertical position. This will help ensure that the bristles reach all of the surfaces of the teeth, including the backs of the teeth. Additionally, it’s important to use gentle circular motions when brushing and to spit the toothpaste out after brushing.
Brush the Tongue
To properly brush your child’s teeth, you must let them brush their tongue. This is done by using a tongue scraper, which is a small, metal tool that you can purchase at most drug stores. Start by wetting the tongue scraper and holding it at the back of your child’s tongue.
Gently pull the tongue scraper forward and rinse it off after each stroke. They should do this for at least 10 seconds. If you are not sure and it’s your first time, a local kids dentist could get you guided.
Rinse Your Mouth and Toothbrush With Water
When you’re finished brushing your child’s teeth, it’s important to rinse their mouth and toothbrush with water. This will help remove any plaque or bacteria that may be left on their teeth or gums. It’s a good idea to floss their teeth at least once a day to remove any food or plaque that may be stuck in between their teeth.
Importance of Teaching Brushing Teeth for Kids
When it comes to teaching kids how to brush their teeth, it is important to first demonstrate the proper technique. After all, they will be more likely to follow your lead if they see you doing it correctly. Once they have the hang of it, they can be encouraged to do it on their own.
As they get older, you can help them to understand the importance of brushing their teeth. brushing teeth for kids is challenging but it’s necessary to keep their oral hygiene clean and their teeth healthy.
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