It is vital to teach children at an early age good dental hygiene habits that they will carry on throughout their lives. Or at least through the “braces phase” because scummy braces are the worst, am I right?
Teeth and Happiness.
Having healthy teeth is an important part of wellbeing. Individuals with poor dental hygiene tend to not show their teeth when they smile, cover their mouths when they laugh and feel overall lower confidence. Bad teeth also cause swollen, painful gums and cavities.
Rush to Brush.
It is important to begin dental hygiene habits with babies. After feedings, one should gently wipe the baby’s gums with a soft gauze cloth. Once a child gets his or her first tooth, a silicon brush, which fits snugly on an index finger, can be used to clean the tooth and massage the gums. A child’s first birthday should include a first toothbrush.
Brushing Done Right.
1. There are a plethora of toothbrushes and toothpastes available. At 18 months, a thin smear of toothpaste is appropriate. Once a child reaches two years of age, a pea-size amount of toothpaste is appropriate.
2. Vertically and gently brush the teeth on the inside and outside surfaces.
Teeth Tips for Young Brushers.
1. Encourage brushing and lead by example.
2. A cute toothbrush never hurts.
3. A timer allows your child to know how long to brush for.
4. Teach them to spit like a champ. This way they won’t swallow the toothpaste.
5. Educate children about cavities, sore gums, tooth decay and enamel loss.
Who knows, maybe all these healthy habits will lead to raising a future dentist!