As you and your kids get back into the routine of going to school, there are many things to consider. If you want to raise happy, healthy kids you need to make sure they get enough sleep and eat a nutritious diet. Another thing they need is an effective oral care routine. Back to school is an excellent time to start healthy dental hygiene habits.
The Importance of Morning Oral Hygiene
Many parents establish a bedtime routine that includes teeth brushing, which is extremely beneficial to children’s oral health. In addition to nighttime dental care, brushing teeth in the morning has significant benefits. Brushing twice a day reduces plaque buildup on teeth and improves overall oral health. Oral health has a strong connection to your general health and well-being. A healthy mouth supports academic performance and reduces the amount of time a child is absent from school.
How To Establish a Morning Oral Care Routine
The following tips can help get your children started on the right foot with morning oral care:
- Choose a specific order in your routine. Have your children get ready for school by doing things in a specific order. Whether they brush their teeth right after getting up or after they eat breakfast, be sure to stick to the routine every day until it becomes a habit.
- Use a brushing timer. Children should brush their teeth for at least 2 minutes in the morning, and using a timer can help make sure they brush long enough.
- Keep brushing tools in a convenient location. Keep oral hygiene products in every bathroom that your children use to make brushing and flossing convenient.
- Brush to music. You can find a song that is about 2 minutes long for your children to listen to while they brush their teeth. Or purchase a toothbrush that plays music so that your child knows how long to brush.
Kid-Friendly Oral Care Products
These oral care products are made especially for children to improve their oral health:
- Soft-bristled toothbrush. Be sure your child is using a soft-bristled toothbrush that will remove plaque without damaging tooth enamel or irritating their gums.
- Flossers. Flossers or flossing sticks make it easier for children to floss effectively.
- Mouthwash. Rinsing with a mouthwash made for children can reduce plaque bacteria by reaching the smallest spaces in the mouth.
- Electric toothbrushes. An electric toothbrush can make it easier for children to brush their teeth effectively and with the right amount of pressure.
- Toothpaste with kid-friendly flavors. Mint flavored toothpaste can be too strong for some kids, but children’s toothpaste comes in fruit or bubble gum flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Children’s Oral Care
How often should children brush and floss their teeth?
We recommend that children brush their teeth twice a day and floss once a day. This routine significantly reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
When should children switch to adult toothpaste?
There is not necessarily a benefit to using adult toothpaste. As long as your child is using toothpaste containing fluoride, there is no need for them to switch to adult toothpaste. They may reach a point during adolescence where they prefer the breath-freshening properties of mint.
The Role of the Pediatric Dentist in Your Oral Care Routine
Another important part of your children’s oral care routine should be preventive dental care appointments. Every 6 months your child should see the dentist to have their teeth cleaned and examined. If you don’t currently have a dental home, Dream Smiles Pediatric Dentistry of Gaithersburg is excited to welcome you to our practice.
Call 301-327-1003 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.