Helping Your Kids Brush And Floss
Do your kids brush and floss each day? Now for the trickier question: Do they brush and floss the right way? Often children simply don’t do so correctly, which can leave their smiles vulnerable to tooth decay. In today’s blog, your Dallas, TX, pediatric dentist talks about how to ensure your children brush and floss properly.
The Impact of Plaque Buildup
When your little ones consume foods and drinks high in sugar and starch, this leaves behind particles on or between the teeth. Harmful bacteria will then break down these particles, which elevates oral acidity and coats the teeth in plaque buildup. This sticky layer can harden into tartar with time and increase the risk of bad breath, stained teeth, cavities, and gingivitis. Summer break means kids tend to become lax in their routines and may snack more, eating lots of candies and drinking plenty of sodas and energy drinks, which leaves their smiles especially vulnerable. You need to make sure they continue to clean their teeth properly!
Brushing and Flossing
First, make sure your children have an age-appropriate toothbrush, preferably one with soft bristles. We also suggest a fluoride toothpaste, which can strengthen the outer enamel. Kids under the age of three need a rice-sized amount, while kids over the age of three need a pea-sized amount. They should brush for two miniest in the morning and then again at night. You brush for your babies and young toddlers, and monitor your older kids. A fun song or video could be used to time them.
Flossing is also vital. As soon as there are teeth sitting side-by-side in their mouth, they need to floss, as this removes what a toothbrush alone cannot. They can use a floss pick or when they have better dexterity, tape or string. They need to floss up and down each side of every tooth, dipping beneath the gum line.
See Us For an Exam and Cleaning
Summer break is also a great time to see our team for a checkup and cleaning! We can examine the smile and if we find issues like tooth decay, offer fillings to save the tooth and prevent major discomfort. Our team can also clean the teeth to remove all plaque and tartar. We could even discuss special treatments to lower the risk of cavities, such as fluoride treatments or dental sealants. If you have any questions, then contact our team today!
PDC Kids Provides Healthy Smiles for Children of All Ages
We want to help children enjoy good oral health and better homecare habits. To find out more about how our team helps instill good oral health habits, call Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda in Dallas, TX, today at (214) 321-4880.
filed under: Good Hygiene