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How to Teach Children to Brush Their Teeth Properly?

Children should be taught these simple habits to brush their teeth and gums from an early age to decrease developing cavities.

Develop a Routine of Brushing in the Morning and at Night

Use a fluoride toothpaste for kids approved by the American Dental Association to brush teeth in the correct way. This will remove plaque that sticks to teeth and leads to tooth decay.

Clean Outer Surfaces

Place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the tooth surfaces. Brush in a small circular motion

Clean Gumline

Move the toothbrush up and down from the gumline to the teeth with care

Clean Inner Surfaces

Brushing teeth inside, the toothbrush bristles vertical as close as possible to the surface of the crown, with force from the gums to the crown

The Correct Way to Use a Kids Toothbrush

In order to brush teeth effectively, select the right toothbrush for a child. The bristles should be soft to prevent hurting the gums. Select a toothbrush with a small head that glides easily inside the mouth and a thick handle, so it wouldn’t slip from a child’s hand. The child would feel confident to thoroughly clean his teeth every morning and evening.

Petite Brush

Petite brush to help clean the mouth thoroughly

Soft Bristles

Soft bristles to provide gentle care for baby teeth

Anti-Slip Handle

Anti-slip handle for easy grip

Maintain a Balanced Diet

During daily diet, parents should notice their child’s intake of starchy and sugary foods. These foods are easily decomposed by bacteria and produce acids which attacks teeth and causes tooth decay. Starch and sugars are suitable for eating with a meal and not as snacks. Drinking plenty of water and secreting saliva during meals help clean up food left between teeth. Give your child foods that are rich in calcium, phosphorus, vitamins which are absorbed to help develop their teeth.

Sugar

Bacteria digest sugars in the mouth to produce acid which erodes, softens and decalcifies the teeth causing cavities. Chewing on hard candy may cause damage to the tooth enamel.

Processed Drinks

Most of them contain high levels of sugar, which will be digested by the bacteria in the mouth to produce acid leading to tooth erosion. Examples are sodas and fruit beverages.

Sticky Food

Clings onto the tooth surfaces, making it harder to brush the teeth and providing a ground for bacteria to breed. Examples are dried fruit and gummy candy.

Drink Water Containing Fluoride

Drink plenty of water containing fluoride. If you drink normal tap water or bottled water, ask your dentist or paediatrician to prescribe daily supplements containing fluoride for your child. Also bring your child for dental check-ups regularly.

Oral Health Tips
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How to Teach Children to Brush Their Teeth Properly?