Tips for Parents on Instilling Healthy Oral Health Habits

Dr. Arlene A. Asante, MS, DDS

Today Dr. Asante, is sharing tips for parents on instilling healthy oral health habits for their children. Brushing the teeth of a young child can be challenging but it's crucial for establishing good dental habits early on. 

Here are some tips to help you brush the teeth of a 1-5 year old effectively:

1.  Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head designed for infants.

2. Use a smear (the size of a grain of rice) of fluoride toothpaste. Yes, fluoride is good for children's teeth.

1. Sit your child on your lap with their head resting against your chest or place them on a changing table.

2. When brushing children's teeth use small circular motions to clean all the surface of their teeth. 

3. Sing a song, tell a story, or give them a toy to hold to make the experience more enjoyable.

4. Ensure you brush gently to avoid causing discomfort.

5. Brush at the same time each day to establish a routine.

6. Parents should always assist their children when brushing their teeth until the child has independent dexterity hand skills. Do not let your children brush on their own until you have teached them proper brushing and they display independence. 

7. Always brush for 2-3 minutes with fluoride toothpaste. 

8. Use a Cup by Age 1. Transition your child from a bottle to a cup by their first birthday to reduce the risk of caries

9. Avoid Bottle in Bed. Do not put your child to bed with a bottle of milk, juice, or any sugary drink. These can pool in the mouth and lead to decay. Use water if a bottle is needed. Once the child is asleep, remove the bottle from the child's mouth. 

Common questions parents have concerning their children's oral care:

1. When should my child first visit the dentist?  A child should visit the dentist by their first birthday or within six months of getting their first tooth.

2. How often should my child see the dentist? Typically, a child should visit the dentist every six months, but this can vary based on the dentist's recommendations and the child's dental health needs.

3. How to prevent caries ? Preventing dental caries (cavities) in children involves a combination of good oral hygiene practices, a healthy diet, and regular dental care. Children who brush their teeth twice a day for 2-3 mins, have low intake of sugars, and see the dentist every 6 months are more likely to have healthier teeth, and during adulthood have less cavities and less major dental treatment needed. 

4. What age should children get braces?  The timing for braces depends on the child's dental development.Children typically get braces between the ages of 8 and 14. Some children may need early intervention, while others can wait until more permanent teeth have come in. The best way to determine the appropriate age for braces is to consult with an orthodontist. They can evaluate your child's specific needs and recommend the optimal timing for treatment.

Dr. Arlene A. Asante, MS, DDS