Oral Hygiene for Kids

It can be a challenge to get our children to brush, brush well, and brush often. Here are some tips that can help you keep those beautiful little teeth healthy.

The most important time to brush is at night before bed. When we sleep, our saliva production decreases, and this creates an environment for oral bacteria to cause greater destruction to our teeth and gums. Ideally, your child should brush at least two minutes twice per day, followed by flossing.

Infants

Even before your baby’s first tooth appears, the gums can benefit from your careful attention. After breast- or bottle-feeding, wrap one finger with a clean, damp washcloth or piece of gauze and gently rub it across your baby’s gum tissue. This practice both clears your little one’s mouth of any fragments of food and begins the process for building good daily oral care habits.

Toddlers

When your baby’s teeth start to erupt, it’s time to incorporate a toothbrush into your hygiene routine. Start by getting into a position that gives you control and enables you to see well into your child’s mouth. If you can see clearly, you will be able to maneuver the toothbrush better around your child’s mouth for a better quality of brushing.

Using a circular motion, brush all sides of their teeth. Be sure to let your toddler have a turn after you’re done so they can get used to brushing on their own. This way, he or she is more likely to repeat the brushing and flossing exercise when they are old enough.

The only way to get better at something is to practice, practice, and practice. Have your child practice brushing on his or her favorite stuffed animal, and use that opportunity to teach your youngster how to hold the brush and use circular cleaning motions. Showing how you brush your own teeth can also be worthwhile.

Big Kids

Kids love the responsibility of making “big kid” decisions. Keep a variety of toothbrushes, colors of floss, and toothpaste flavors on hand so they can choose something “new” each time they brush.

Flossing

Flossers are great for older children with better dexterity. They have a horseshoe shape on one end with floss in between. You can make a choice for individual preference with color, handle size, or shape to suit your child’s needs.

Choosing a Toothbrush

The most important thing to consider is your child’s age and stage of development. Up until age ten, your child will not have the dexterity to adequately brush or floss independently. Automatic toothbrushes are highly appropriate for all ages. Brushing quality improves when using a battery-powered toothbrush. Use it together with your child, and always play an active role in your child’s oral home care.

The important things to remember when you seek to establish good brushing habits is to keep it fun and stay consistent with your routine. It may take some getting used to, but after a while, your child will become familiar with brushing and might even look forward to their new dental routine.

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Our Regular Schedule

Smile Works Family Dentistry

Monday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Friday:

Closed

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

  • "Dr. Gray and her team are exceptional, and I have recommended her to family and friends. For our family of 7, they have provided care for adults and kids with comfort and skill, from cleanings to fillings and a recent crown on my 8 year old daughter. Our kids actually love going to the dentist, which speaks volumes! I highly recommend Smile Works!"
    Thomas B.
  • "Very thorough and knowledgeable, they always show you in pictures and on x-rays if you have any cavities so that you can see them for yourself rather than just going by their word. Dr Gray and Jess are very gentle when getting any work done. Shelley does a wonderful job at fillings and Debbie up front is amazing at figuring out your dental benefits and cost so you're never surprised by the cost of anything!"
    Jordan L.
  • "Fantastic! Dr Gray and her staff have cared for our entire family since she opened this practice. She is very thorough and gentle. Our kids actually love going to the dentist. I highly recommend her to all of my friends."
    Ann B.
  • "It's always a great experience, the staff are very patient with answering my questions and very informative!"
    rabspa
  • "Dr. Gray and the entire staff at Smiles Works are amazing! Very thorough and explained everything in detail. If you are in need of a dentist I highly recommend Dr. Gray and the talented team at Smile Works."
    Jesse M.