Caring for your teeth is essential at any age, but it’s vital for kids. Teaching kids to clean their teeth daily is an essential thing to learn. As good dental habits from a young age can help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other problems.
Here’s what parents should know about cleaning their children’s teeth:
Why is it important for kids to brush their teeth?
Cleaning your teeth is essential for everyone, but it’s crucial for kids because their teeth and habits for caring for them are still developing. Children are more likely to get cavities and other dental problems than adults because they might also not brush and floss. In addition, kids eat and drink a lot of sugary foods and drinks, which is literally an open-door invitation for tooth decay. So teaching your kids to clean their teeth regularly will keep things like food particle buildup at bay, which may cause plaque or even gum diseases.
When should a child start brushing their teeth?
Of course every child is different but the sooner the better. Age 3-5 seems to be when most kids pick it up. Until then, parents should start brushing their child’s teeth as soon as the first tooth comes in (Which is usually between 6 and 10 months). Parents should gently touch the tooth and gums around it with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and a small amount of toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice). So keep brushing your child’s teeth. Preferably after each meal, or twice daily. Before bedtime for sure.
At what age should kids start to floss?
When two of their teeth begin to touch, this is the time that mommy and daddy (Whatever the situation is, all good) should start flossing their child’s teeth. Flossing helps get food and plaque out from between the teeth. A toothbrush is great, but only for surface level cleaning. Most kids start to get teeth next to each other between the ages of 2 and 3.
How can parents get their child to brush their teeth?
Parents of young children may find it hard to get their kids to brush their teeth, but there are several things they can do to help their kids get into good dental habits.
Here are some suggestions:
- Use colorful toothbrushes, play music, or sing a song while you brush your teeth to make it more fun.
- Brush your teeth with your child to show them how to do it right.
- Please encourage your child to brush their teeth by praising them or giving them small rewards. After all, it is a great habit that you are helping them develop. Heck give yourself a reward too.
- Make a plan and follow it. Ensure your child brushes his or her teeth in the morning and before bed (At the minimum).
What kind of toothbrush and toothpaste should parents buy for their children?
Parents should give their kids a toothbrush with soft bristles, and a toothpaste that is made just for kids. Most toothpaste for children has less fluoride than for adults, which can help prevent fluorosis (A condition that causes white spots on the teeth). Also while you are at it, pay attention on how much toothpaste you teach them to use as well. This is an insider tip.
How often should kids go to the dentist?
Starting at age 1, kids should visit the dentist every six months for a checkup. Regular dental checkups can help find any problems with your teeth early and stop them from worsening. So regular check ups are highly recommended. 6-8 months seems to be the concensus.
Cost of Teeth Cleaning for Kids
In Canada, the cost of cleaning a child’s teeth can vary depending on where they live, which dentist they go to, and what services they need. Most of the time, cleaning a child’s teeth in Canada by a dentist, will cost between $60 and $120 per visit.
It’s important to know that some dental clinics may offer discounts, or special prices for children’s dental services (Sometimes it can be teeth cleaning as well). So it’s always best to inquire first.
Also, some provinces in Canada have dental programs for kids from low-income families that are paid for by the government. For example, the government of Ontario has a programme called “Healthy Smiles Ontario”, that gives free dental care to eligible children, and teens under 17 years old.
Parents should talk to their dental clinic or provincial government to find out how much it costs to clean their child’s teeth, and if there are any financial aid programs. As children definitely need regular dental checkups, and consistent teeth cleaning to avoid future dental issues.
So at the end of the day, cleaning a child’s teeth is integral to good oral health. Parents should start brushing their child’s teeth as soon as the first tooth comes in, and flossing as soon as two teeth begin to touch. Also get them involved themselves so they can trust themselves and become strong independent and radiant people. As a parent (If you are one), you can always help kids develop good dental habits by making brushing their teeth fun, giving praise, and setting a routine.