The ABC’s of Brushing and Flossing
By Dr. Carl Hash, First Impressions Dentistry and Orthodontics
Teach your children the ABC’s of good dental care habits at an early age and chances are they’ll stick with it for a lifetime. Regular brushing and flossing will help reduce plaque and keep teeth and gums healthy. Even “baby” teeth need to be cared for to prevent problems down the road.
BRUSHING
The first thing you’ll need to do is choose a toothbrush that is right for your child. A toothbrush with soft, round-ended bristles and a short head is usually a good selection for children. There are a variety of manual and electric models, many decorated with popular cartoon characters to add more fun to the experience. Your dentist may have a list of recommended brands and styles that are specially designed for your child’s smaller hands and mouths. The ABC’s of brushing are really quite simple.
Assist
Children under 7 need help brushing because they typically haven’t developed the ability to effectively control the toothbrush. So it’s important to brush your children’s teeth twice a day or at least supervise brushing. Brushing in the morning and again before bed is highly recommended.
Behind
When you help your child brush his or her teeth, try to stand behind them so that they can see themselves in a mirror. It will not only give you easier access to their mouth, but will also allow them to watch you use proper brushing techniques. You’ll want a thin strip of toothpaste on the toothbrush before you begin. Avoid using toothpastes that contain fluoride until your child is able to consciously avoid swallowing it. Again, ask your dentist about age appropriate toothpastes for your child.
DO YOU HAVE TOOTHPASTE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR DIFFERENT AGES THAT YOU’D LIKE TO INCLUDE IN THE ARTICLE?
Circular
Starting with the upper left molars, hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle pointing the bristles the upper gums, and gently move the brush in a circular motion. Be sure to brush the inside, outside, and chewing surfaces of each tooth. When brushing the chewing surfaces, hold the brush flat and brush back and forth. Gently brush the tongue with a back to front sweeping motion, and then rinse with the mouth water. Rinse the toothbrush, and let it air dry until the next brushing. You should replace toothbrushes about every three months, or when the bristles start to bend or look worn out.
FLOSSING
Flossing is also an important part of good dental hygiene. It helps remove plaque and food between teeth, which means that it helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
There are many types of floss to choose from including flavored, waxed, unwaxed, plain, flat, and fat. There are also floss holders and disposable floss sticks that can help make flossing a little easier. You need to figure out what works best for you and your child, and then do it consistently. Whatever type of floss product you settle on, be sure to follow the simple ABC’s of flossing.
Around
Remove a long piece of floss and wrap about three quarters of the string around one of your middle fingers and the other end around your other middle finger. Leave about an inch open between fingers.
Between
Using your forefingers, guide the floss down between each tooth. On the way back up, rub it along the edges of the teeth in a sawing motion.
Clean
Unwind clean floss as you go so that you are not re-depositing food removed from between other teeth. And be sure to floss behind the last teeth on the top and bottom rows.
It’s not unusual to have mild bleeding from your gums for the first several days that you floss. If bleeding continues after the first week of flossing, check with your dentist to make sure there are no other problems.
Following the simple ABC’s of brushing and flossing will help keep your child’s smile bright and healthy for years to come. It’s a lesson worth teaching.