Pediatric Oral Care 101: How to Brush a Child’s Teeth!

Oral care for children can sometimes be daunting for parents, and the doctors at Crystal Dental Centers know this battle all too well. Searching for a pediatric dentist in Los Angeles no longer has to be a part of that battle. The professional team at Crystal Dental provides outstanding professional care for children of all ages.

One of the most asked questions is, “How do I brush my child’s teeth correctly?” So here are some pediatric guidelines for providing the best homecare for your child.

• Start oral care early. The earlier oral care starts, the less likely there will be an aversion to brushing or flossing. Ask your Los Angeles dentist for details.
• Once the first tooth erupts into the mouth, ask your dentist if it’s time to start bristle brushing. Baby teeth can erupt as early as four months of age or as late as 8-12 months of age.
• Once the permanent teeth begin to erupt, oral care can be shared between the adult and the child but should not be completely handed over to them.
• Most children lack the skill and coordination to effectively brush their own teeth regularly. Parental supervision is required.
• When brush training a child, try the “show and share” method. The child watches in the mirror as you brush their teeth, and then they can share the responsibility by having a chance to brush their own teeth. This method is very effective if it is done regularly. The adult slowly reduces the amount of time they brush, and they give additional time to the child to brush independently.
• Even when a young adolescent has mastered the art of tooth brushing, parents still need to check and monitor results daily.
• To check for effective brushing habits, gently lift the lips and look for plaque along the gumline or between teeth. It will look like a white film and may be stained.
• Toothbrushing should last at least 2 minutes, be performed twice a day, and accompany flossing and therapeutic rinses as needed.

If you are considering to start brushing your child’s teeth, it is always in the best interest of all parties to consult with your pediatric dentist in Los Angeles before to ensure effectiveness.For further information or to schedule your child’s routine check-up or cleaning please contact Crystal Dental Centers at 213.748.8448 or visit www.CrystalDentalCenters.com to learn more.