8 Ways to Make Sure Your Kids’ Teeth Are Healthy
These tips are designed to encourage good dental hygiene from a young age, so kids are equipped to protect their teeth for years to come.
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Start a routine of a twice-daily brush and oral rinse.
The two points of emphasis for toddlers/kids are to not to swallow toothpaste and to brush for 2 minutes. Using a timer can help get them in this habit. When introducing fluoride toothpaste, always consult with your dentist or doctor first.
Children can begin using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste when they turn two.
Fluoride toothpaste will strengthen enamel and protect from cavities. Choose a gentle toothpaste that does not contain sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) as it is known to inflame tissues and cause oral sores. Again, consult a dentist or doctor before using fluoride toothpaste with children under 2 years of age.
Be sure to read drug facts on the label and follow the instructions when using fluoride toothpaste.
Too much fluoride can be harmful, as can other ingredients.
Parents should begin helping their children use dental floss and/or interdental brushes between ages 2-6, and children should be flossing on their own by age 10.
Bacteria convert food, debris, and sugars into a slimy substance called dental plaque. It grows along the gum lines and between teeth. Getting food and debris and plaque from between teeth is difficult—that’s where dental floss comes in. Interdental brushes also reach between teeth and can be dipped in fluoride toothpaste before use to increase prevention and effectiveness.
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