
Feb
Many parents have questions about maintaining their child’s dental health. When should we start brushing our child’s teeth? How soon should our little one begin flossing? Thankfully, your Albuquerque dentist, Dr. Mark Miller, is here to help answer your questions. In today’s blog, Dr. Miller explains how soon kids should begin brushing and offers parents a free tooth-brushing chart to help motivate their children.
Typically, parents should being brushing their children’s teeth once the first baby tooth erupts. Initially, use a wet cloth or gauze to clean your child’s tooth. After the arrival of more teeth, you should upgrade to an age appropriate toothbrush. For young children, always use a non-fluoridated toothpaste. Brush twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed. Once your child’s teeth are touching, begin gently flossing once a day. Instead of regular dental tape, use floss picks.
Brushing and flossing at an early age helps instill good dental habits. When your child gets older, they are better prepared to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Good oral hygiene also helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease, protecting your little one’s smile.
Sometimes, children can make brushing and flossing difficult. Which is why the people at LoveYourTeeth.net are offering a free tooth-brushing chart. Simply go to the website and enter your child’s name in the space provided. Don’t worry, no personal information is collected and no names are stored. Click “print my chart” and you will receive a no-cost, personalized chart. The free chart helps your child keep track of four weeks of twice daily brushing. If they maintain all four weeks, they win! Some parents recommend offering a smile prize at the end of the four weeks, maybe a trip to their favorite restaurant or a chance to rent a movie.
Do you have questions or concerns regarding your little one’s dental health? Contact your family dentist today. Dr. Miller provides an array of general, family, and cosmetic dentistry. Visit our Albuquerque dentist office or call (505) 596-4479 to make an appointment. We serve patients from Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, Edgewood, Corrales, Los Lumas, Tijeras, Mountain Air, Santa Fe, and Taos.
What Our patients