Oral Hygiene For Kids
Oregon City, OR
 Oral hygiene is important, even for children with baby teeth. One of the keys to maintaining oral hygiene and brushing teeth with children is to get them started early. There is never a time when it is too early to demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques. Children will also copy what they observe. If you, as the parent, do not engage in brushing and flossing, they likely will not either. However, if they observe you brushing and flossing at least twice a day they will adopt the same behavior.
Oral health and overall medical health go hand in hand. It is important they learn these techniques to take with them through adulthood. Be sure and demonstrate to your children how to hold the toothbrush and how to properly brush. If you need tips on how to do this, please contact us at Jacobsen Pediatric Dentistry. We are always here for you.
Picking Out a Toothbrush
Most parents are very well aware of their child's favorite color or cartoon character or sports figure. They likely ask for gifts and toys with those things on them. Toothbrushes are no different. There are many different kinds, with different styles of bristles and exciting colors. Although you may be tempted to pick out their brush for them, it is important that they get to pick it out. It will help keep their interest in the brush, giving you more time to teach them how to properly brush. They will be more apt to continue brushing if they are able to pick out the brush they really want.
Brushing Your Teeth Together
Adults are able to easily brush and floss their teeth with regularity. However, children have no idea how to do it properly at first. Even the simplest part of the process can seem daunting to them. Show them how to properly squeeze the toothpaste onto the brush without wasting it. Show them out to properly draw the floss between their teeth. Just like any sport or musical instrument, practicing makes all the difference. Brush your teeth with your child, so they can see how dedicated you are to taking care of yours and can watch the motions you engage in to properly brush.
Brushing Only Takes Two Minutes
Make brushing your teeth a fun activity. Turn it into a game. Sing a song or have a dance to do after they are finished. Stress to your child that it only takes two minutes to properly brush their teeth. Include it in their bedtime rituals. You will be surprised how quickly they catch on and want to brush.
Make Brushing a Healthy Habit
Make sure to emphasize to your child how important regular oral hygiene is, through regular brushing and flossing. Encourage your child to be an active part of the process - let them pick which kind of toothpaste they use and which kind of toothbrush. Be sure it is the appropriate size for their mouth and has soft bristles.
Our staff at Jacobsen Pediatric Dentistry can take care of any pediatric dental needs. Even if it is just to answer questions, please contact us. Our phone number is (971) 459-2431. Call today with questions or for an appointment.
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