Home Dental Hygiene for your Child

During our first dentist appointment we talked about how to take care of our teeth at home.  The following are ideas that you can use at home as a preventative measure or a learning experience when it comes to your child’s teeth:

• Talk to your child about his/her anxiety and emotional needs.  By talking to them you are ensuring that they don’t need to scared of the dental appointment.  You can talk to them about what happens at the dentist office, how you can be there to hold their hand (if needs be), how they help your teeth get better and/or stronger, etc.  Preparing your child for the appointment is very important to avoid any surprises or delays.
• You can sign out books from the library or find coloring pages that show what our teeth look like or what happens at the dental office during their appointment.  This is another way to lighten the mood and prepare them for their appointment.
• Build a schedule by printing a simple checklist stating brushing and rinsing in the morning, after a meal, and before going to bed.  You can place this checklist on the corner of the bathroom mirror that your child visits during the day.  This is an excellent reminder tool and goes a long way to ensure that the adults/child follow through with a teeth cleaning/caring schedule.
• It is very important to discuss with the dentist, before any procedures, about special needs (physically, emotionally or otherwise) concerning your child.

Here are some suggestive guidelines for home care of your child's teeth:

(TIP: please assist your child if they are younger than 5 or if they require further assistance).

Brushing

Oral B Stages 1 Little Einsteins Toothbrush

-Brush 2-3 times per day

-It is recommended to use Circular motions on each tooth (approximately 2 minutes)

-The most important time for brushing is before going to bed. No fluids after brushing, except water.

-Buy an age appropriate tooth brush (manual/electric) for your child

Tooth paste

Oral B Stages Toothpaste (for ages 2-4)

-Only use for children that can spit, otherwise use water only

-Choose a fluoride brand 

-Remind child to not swallow toothpaste

-Use a small amount on toothbrush (size of a grain of rice)

Flossing

Oral B Satin Floss

-Floss when teeth touch together

-Use a waxed floss (so it doesn't get caught in between teeth)

-Floss at bedtime (minimum)

 Mouth wash

Listerine Smart Rinse Kids (Alcohol Free)

-ONLY use for kids that are able to spit or some companies claim it is for kids aged 6 or older.

-Use an ALCOHOL FREE version 

Hope this info helps with taking care of your child's dental needs.

Annie

(Source: discussion with local dental hygienist)