Oral Care for Kids

a part of the KIDS HYGIENE ESSENTIALS SERIES

A sleeping baby. Filed under the Newborn Essentials Checklist article.

Brushing and Flossing

Regular brushing and flossing are vital for maintaining good oral health. They help prevent gum disease, cavities, plaque buildup, and other oral health issues. Establishing good habits early on sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Regular, consistent flossing is the single most important weapon against plaque. It’s recommended that children brush their teeth twice a day.

Here is a simple guide when choosing toothbrushes and toothpaste for your kids:

Toothbrushes

  • 0-3 Years Old: Finger slip or infant toothbrushes are recommended.
  • 3-5 Years Old: Kid-sized toothbrushes with small heads and large handles with soft grips are suitable.
  • 6-9 Years Old: Kid-sized toothbrush or electric toothbrush can be introduced.
  • 8 and Up: Toothbrushes are similar to adult products but still have slightly smaller heads and larger handles.

Toothpaste

  • Under 6 Years Old: Low fluoride children’s toothpaste is recommended.
  • 6 Years and Above: Full adult-strength toothpaste is recommended if they can spit out.

Dental Visits

Children should see a dentist regularly, usually every six to 12 months, even if they have no problems with their teeth. The first dental visit is recommended by 12 months of age or within 6 months of the first tooth coming in.

Making Brushing a Fun Daily Routine

Instilling good hygiene habits in children from a young age is crucial for their overall health and well-being.
By making these routines fun and engaging, we can ensure that children look forward to these daily rituals:

  • Brush to the beat and play your child’s favourite songs while they brush.
  • Offer simple rewards for your child for consistent brushing.
  • Create a fun story in which your child is the hero who brushes away the bad guys who cause cavities.
  • Let your child choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste.
  • Children learn from you, so brush your teeth together.
  • Allow your children to brush their own teeth.
  • Kids thrive on routine, so establishing a twice-daily oral hygiene routine for your kids while they’re still young can help limit future resistance to brushing their teeth.
  • Use a timer or app to make the process more enjoyable.
  • Turn toothbrushing into a fun game.
  • Dancing and playing while brushing can make the process more enjoyable.

Remember, the goal is not just to teach them about cleanliness but also to help them understand its importance. With the right approach, we can turn these essential habits into enjoyable activities, setting our children up for a lifetime of good health and hygiene. Let’s make hygiene fun for our kids.

Read the next article in the Kids’ Hygiene Essentials Series: Bathing and Showering for Kids.

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