In honor of Children’s Dental Health Month (February), Hersch Pediatric Dentistry encourages parents to help their children learn how to maintain good oral hygiene. Getting kids to take good care of their oral health can be a challenge, but here are a few tips from your Newport Beach pediatric dentist that make oral hygiene easy and fun!
Use a Special Toothbrush
Regular toothbrushes can seem boring to kids, but a special kid’s toothbrush can make oral hygiene seem fun and exciting. You can find colorful or character-themed toothbrushes at almost any major grocery or drug store. The American Dental Association recommends that you replace your toothbrush once every three months. Letting your child choose a new soft-bristled toothbrush every three months is a great way to make oral hygiene fun.
Brush Your Teeth Together
Kids love to follow their parents’ example, so brushing your teeth together is a great way to show your child how to practice good oral hygiene. Take this opportunity to show your child proper brushing technique (brushing in short strokes with the brush held at a 45-degree angle to the gums).
Flossing Chart
Kids are more likely to brush their teeth regularly than they are to floss. Flossing generally takes longer and can be more difficult for kids to do on their own, so some incentive may be required to get kids to follow a daily flossing schedule. Creating or purchasing a flossing chart with stickers is a great way to encourage kids to floss every day. Consider presenting your child with a small prize if he or she flosses daily for a week!
Use a Timer
Your Newport Beach orthodontist and the American Dental Association recommend that you brush your teeth twice a day, for two minutes each time. You can purchase a two-minute sand timer or set an alarm on your phone so your child knows once he or she has reached the two-minute recommendation.
In addition to these helpful tips, be sure to give your child plenty of praise whenever he or she practices good oral hygiene.
Visit Your Newport Beach Kids Dentist
Following daily tips and tricks to stay up to date on your oral hygiene is one part of the step. Make sure to bring in your child every six months for a general check-up to ensure oral health. You can contact us at 949.644.0611 or schedule an appointment online!