As your toddler begins to grow and develop the motor functions to start brushing and flossing their own teeth, parents will need to guide them and make sure they brush and floss their teeth properly. There is more than just giving them a toothbrush and telling them to scrub their teeth. To insure your toddler learns proper oral health and care, Smile Reef will share all of the highlights of brushing and flossing teeth that you should teach to your toddler.
How to Teach Preschoolers & Toddlers to Brush & Floss Their Teeth
How Long Should Kids Brush Your Teeth For? – When beginning to teach your toddler how to brush, let them know they should take their time and thoroughly clean their teeth. On average, it should take about two minutes to brush teeth. Turn on a song that the toddler can brush their teeth to so they learn not to rush the process.
Correct Tooth Brushing Techniques – When you begin teaching your toddlers how to brush their teeth, make sure to share that every tooth needs to be cleaned. It also helps for your toddler to brush more effectively if they hold their toothbrush on a 45-degree angle starting at the gum line. Also teach how to use a curricular motion on the sides of the teeth and a sweeping motion on the tops or bottom. Don’t forget to remind them to brush their tongue and the roof of their mouth.
How to Floss Teeth – Daily flossing is essential to oral health. It helps remove plaque and trapped particles from in between the teeth. Once your toddler’s teeth make contact with each other will be the time flossing is needed. It is recommended using flossing string versus the picks for a more thorough flossing. Show your toddler to use a length of floss around 18 inches and how to wrap the floss around their index finger on each hand. Make sure they don’t wind it too tight and make their fingers turn purple. Show how to go in between each tooth. Make sure they curve around each tooth with a c-cup shape. As they use a section of floss tell them to use clean or unused areas for the next tooth.
Additional Tooth Brushing Tips
Make sure to change your child’s toothbrush every three months. An often found bacterium develops leading to infection and other oral health concerns. Also the bristles get worn down and are no longer effective. When shopping for a new toothbrush, allow your child to pick their own toothbrush to encourage interest. Also make sure it is designed for children. Use flavored toothpaste. Regular toothpaste is a bit distasteful for children and could lead to discouragement. Oral health is an important step for a toddler to learn. It is recommended that until your child is seven years old, you help them brush their teeth. You may even need to assist them to ensure they properly clean and care for their teeth.
Pediatric Dental Care
To maintain your child’s oral hygiene make sure they learn proper oral care. Additionally it is wise to have your child’s teeth development monitored. Make sure to schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist about every six months. If your child is ready for their check up, contact Smile Reef and schedule your appointment today.
