A healthy mouth is a happy mouth—no matter how old you are! Oral health is important throughout your whole life, and by helping your child maintain theirs from a young age, you’re laying the foundation for a white and bright smile that will last for many years to come. That said, many parents have questions about when they should start cleaning their little one’s pearly whites. Here’s what your pediatric dentist wants you to know.
When To Start Cleaning Your Child’s Teeth
You should begin taking care of your little one’s teeth before they even come in! You can use a clean, wet gauze or washcloth to gently wipe your infant’s gums after feedings. However, as soon as your child’s first tooth erupts, it’s time to begin brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day. You should continue doing this until you’re confident that your child is capable of brushing on their own. Most can brush when they enter preschool, but whenever they’re ready, you should be sure to supervise them and ensure they use the correct amount of toothpaste and proper brushing method. Until then, you’ll need to brush them yourself.
Tips for Brushing Your Child’s Teeth
Not only must you begin assisting with maintaining your child’s oral health from an early age, but you must also go about it the correct way. Here are five steps to help you out:
- Apply the right amount of toothpaste – the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends a rice-sized smear for children ages 0 to 3 years old and a pea-sized amount for children ages 3 and up.
- Angle the toothbrush at 45-degrees – The toothbrush should be held facing towards the gums of the upper or lower teeth.
- Move the brush gently back and forth using short, tooth-sized strokes – Continue this technique for the interior, exterior, and chewing surfaces of the teeth.
- Hold the brush in a vertical position to brush the front teeth – Make sure to also clean the front and back.
- Brush the tongue to remove bacteria from the surface – The tongue can easily collect bacteria too, so ensure that it’s thoroughly cleaned.
How Your Pediatric Dentist Can Help
Of course, you’re not entirely alone when it comes to caring for your child’s smile; their dentist can also help! They have the tools, training, and experience needed to make sure your child’s oral health is set up for success from an early age. Not to mention, they can also provide you with additional tips to ensure that your little one’s teeth are as bright and white as possible.
Teaching toothbrushing to your child and keeping their mouth clean might be difficult at first, but it’s absolutely worth it—and it’ll ensure that their smile is as happy and healthy as possible as they grow.
About the Author
Dr. Mariliza LaCap received her dental doctorate from the Columbia University School of Dental & Oral Surgery and is a proud member of several professional organizations including the American Dental Association and the prestigious Academy of General Dentistry. Her practice is pleased to offer many available services including pediatric dentistry. If you have any questions about the article or would like to schedule a visit for your child, feel free to contact Dr. LaCap through her practice’s website or by phone: (845) 675-1512.