5 Useful Dental Tips for Children

Teaching your child proper oral hygiene will protect their teeth until they reach adulthood. Soon, they will learn to independently brush and floss their teeth. The journey may be challenging at times, which is why getting started early can be beneficial. It can help your child develop a positive attitude toward dental care.

Here are some useful dental tips for children:

1. Brush at least twice a day. Show your child how to brush their teeth properly. Let them choose their own toothbrush and ask your dentist about the appropriate toothpaste type for them. A pea-sized amount is enough for children ages 3 and up. And since they’re still learning to spit, your dentist is likely to recommend a safe-to-swallow toothpaste. Make brushing more fun by playing their favorite songs or videos.
   
   
2. Teach them proper brushing techniques. Expect to encounter resistance, especially if it’s your child’s first time brushing. They might not like it when their mouth is touched. So, don’t think too much about the brushing pattern if they’re defiant. What’s important is that you’re able to clean their mouth. But once they start to cooperate or are in a better mood, think of ways to make brushing more enjoyable and calming. And, gradually, teach them proper brushing methods: don't rush, be gentle, cover all tooth areas, and be sure to clean their tongue, too.
   
   
3. Limit their intake of sugary or starchy foods. Your child’s diet can also affect their oral health. Sugar and starch are the main culprits for tooth decay, so make sure to watch your child's intake. The longer these food deposits stay in the mouth, the more harmful bacteria they can attract. This can result in acid attacks that erode enamel.  Children can still enjoy their favorite sweets and cookies, but don’t let the food deposits linger in their mouths. Have them drink water afterward to rinse their mouths with plain water. Avoid leaving your child with a feeding bottle or sippy cup for an extended period, especially if it contains a sugary liquid or beverage.
   
   
4. Avoid behaviors that can be harmful to their dental health. Your child may have habits that could have negative effects on their teeth and oral health in the long run. Long-term pacifier use, thumb sucking, and tongue thrusting can impact the development of their teeth and jaw. They may experience tooth alignment issues and require orthodontic treatment in the future. Using their teeth to open or cut packages and bite down on hard objects is another behavior that should be eliminated. This can chip, fracture, or break the teeth, causing discomfort and pain.
   
   
5. Take them to the dentist. Bring your child to the dental office for routine dental exams and for the dentist to monitor the development of their mouth. Find out if there are any potential issues you should be aware of and how to address them immediately. During these visits, you can also receive guidance on how to better care for your child's teeth. Your dentist can also help if you’re still having trouble cleaning your child’s mouth. They can provide tips to make brushing and flossing easier.

For more useful dental care tips for children, call us at Centennial Smiles Dental. We are pleased to provide additional information on how to protect and enhance your child's oral health.

We also recommend booking a fun first dental visit here in our downtown Calgary, AB, office. Let's introduce your child to the dental team and dental instruments and get them off to a solid start with dental care.