Back-to-school season is almost here, and it's time to create healthy morning routines that include family oral care. If parents maintain consistent oral care routines for their children, they will boost their oral health and build their confidence.
Benefits of An Effective Oral Care Routine
You will enjoy brighter smiles when you and your children care for your teeth and gums. Your breath will be fresher, and your gums will be healthier, resulting in a lower chance of developing gum disease. You will reduce the likelihood of tooth decay, protecting your natural teeth for a lifetime.
Solid oral hygiene also safeguards your family's overall health. Researchers link poor oral hygiene to a higher incidence of high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiac problems.
Oral health also has a measurable impact on academic performance and children's self-esteem.
Building Your Family's Daily Oral Care Routine
A proper oral health routine has two vital components: brushing and flossing. Older children can also use an age-appropriate mouthwash.
Brushing
Adults and children of all ages, even babies and toddlers, must brush at least twice daily. Help your children brush until they are 5 to 6 years old and supervise as long as necessary to ensure they do a good job.
Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush and children's fluoride toothpaste. For children under three, use a smear of toothpaste, and for children over three, use a pea-sized amount.
Ensure that you and your child brush for a full two minutes. Divide the mouth into four quarters and spend 30 seconds in each. Use gentle circular motions and cover all tooth surfaces.
Flossing
Children and adults should floss once daily, starting when the teeth begin to touch in the back of the mouth. Use about 18 inches of floss and wind it around the middle fingers. Slide the floss gently between the child's teeth and curve it around each tooth in an up-and-down motion. Some children may prefer floss picks.
Mouthwash
For children ages nine and up, you can use a fluoride mouthwash. Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash to avoid excess dryness.
Tips to Make Oral Hygiene Fun for Kids
- Choose the Right Equipment: Your child will love selecting their toothbrush and toothpaste. They will be excited to use them each day. Select a toothbrush with a small head.
- Use a Song to Time Brushing: Find a two-minute song or brushing video that children will associate with oral care.
- Rewards: Many children respond well to sticker charts. Give a sticker for each brushing session. Save stickers for a special outing, treat, or toy.
Making Healthy Breakfast Choices
Children need a balanced breakfast before school. Healthy food helps them concentrate on their schoolwork and gives them energy they will use all day. Avoid processed cereals and sugary drinks.
Suggested breakfast ideas for your entire family include:
- Low-sugar Greek yogurt
- Homemade smoothies with no added sugar
- Peanut butter or avocado on whole-grain toast
- Crunchy foods like apples that help to clean teeth naturally
Promoting Excellent Oral Health For Your Family
These tips can help you ensure positive oral health outcomes for yourself and your children. In addition to a healthy home oral care routine, bring your entire family to the dentist at least twice a year.
Frequently Asked Questions About Children's Oral Hygiene
How does oral health impact a child's academic performance?
Children who suffer from poor oral health have lower school attendance rates, may be unable to concentrate due to dental discomfort, and may lack self-confidence if they do not have a healthy smile like their friends.
Is fluoride safe for kids?
Age-appropriate fluoride products are safe for kids when used as directed. Researchers find that the small risk of swallowing fluoride toothpaste outweighs the significant benefit of reducing cavity formation. If you have concerns, speak to your pediatric dentist.
Contact Tender Smiles 4 Kids
Tender Smiles 4 Kids wants to remind parents to model proper oral hygiene for their children. Treating oral care as a family activity helps children build lifelong healthy habits.
If you have questions about children's oral health or want to schedule an appointment, please contact us at your most convenient Central Jersey location. We look forward to meeting you and your family and helping you achieve better oral health.