Now that kids are home from school, they may have trouble maintaining a good structure during the day. As a result, they could start to stop doing things like making their beds, or more importantly, brushing and flossing their teeth. In today’s blog, your El Paso, TX, dentists talk about what parents can do to care for little smiles.
Daily Care for Little Smiles
Just like you, your kids need to brush and floss each and every day. For babies and toddlers, you can assist them with an age-appropriate toothbrush. Babies may need a small piece of cloth or a toothbrush that fits over your finger. Toddlers need an age-appropriate one. Toddlers and older kids can use toothpaste with fluoride, just make sure you use a rice-sized blot.
Children need to brush for two minutes in the morning, and again before going to bed at night. Make sure they reach every available surface of your teeth. As soon as there are teeth sitting side-by-side, kids need to floss. Young children may prefer a pick, and will upgrade to tape as they get older. Make sure the floss moves up and down each side of every tooth to remove all the trapped food particles that could otherwise increase the risk of cavities and gingivitis.
Make Dental Hygiene Fun!
Pick out, or let your little ones pick out, a toothbrush and toothpaste with pictures of their favorite movie or cartoon characters on them. You can also find fun podcasts or apps that help time kids and discuss proper brushing and flossing, allowing them to take better care of their smiles on their own.
When to See Us
If a serious oral health issue arrives, you may still need to contact our team and set up a time to visit. For example, if your little one complains about a toothache, then there could be a cavity that needs attention before it becomes an infection. If a tooth is chipped or cracked, we should know and offer treatment as well. When your child does come to our office, our team will follow strict safety protocols, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces in the office to help protect the health of our patients. If you have any questions about children’s dentistry or about quality homecare, then contact our team today.
TALK TO SUNNY SMILES IN EL PASO, TX ABOUT CHILDREN’S DENTISTRY
At Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, our team knows how to help kids of all ages enjoy optimal oral health. To learn more about our approach to children’s dental care or about better brushing and flossing, then contact your El Paso, TX, dentists at Sunny Smiles on Dyer Street by calling 915-859-7000.