Keep those pearly whites . . . well, pearly white! Knowing how to brush and floss your child’s teeth is essential to keeping cavities at bay and building strong oral care habits..
When brushing, start by using a fluoride toothpaste with a pea-sized amount, and ensure the toothbrush has soft bristles that suit your child’s age. Encourage your child to brush for two minutes, covering all surfaces of their teeth—top, bottom, and along the gum line. Use gentle, circular motions to avoid damaging gums, and make sure to brush the tongue as well. For younger children, parents should guide them through brushing until they are capable of doing it independently, usually around age six. We believe making brushing a fun routine – not a chore! – helps build good habits that will last a lifetime.
Flossing should start once your child has two adjacent teeth, which usually occurs around the age of two or three. Use a child-sized floss pick or traditional floss to gently clean between each tooth, being careful not to snap the floss down to avoid hurting tender gums. Flossing should be done once a day, ideally before bedtime, to remove food particles and plaque that brushing may miss. Children often need assistance with flossing until they develop the dexterity to do it on their own.
This combination of effective brushing and regular flossing, along with regular dental visits, will go a long way in preventing cavities and promoting healthy smiles.