How do I get my kids to look after their teeth?

Like so many things in life getting kids to look after their teeth is easier said than done. It can take time and careful supervision and it is not always easy to go through the process. The important thing to remember is that your dentist is here to offer advice and help you through this to make sure your kids are aware of not only how to look after their teeth but why it is important.

When do I start with a brushing routine?

The earlier you can get children to start brushing the better. As soon as they are capable of holding a brush you can get them to hold it. However at this time it is best to do this while supervising them. Remember children under the age of 3 should only use a tiny amount of toothpaste, roughly the size of pea.

How long should children brush each day?

Just like adults children need to brush twice a day for two minutes each time they brush. This ought to be once before bedtime and one time during the day although after breakfast is the time most people do it. One way to guarantee that children brush for the allotted time is to use an egg timer or countdown on your mobile phone so that you can be sure they have been brushing for the necessary amount of time.

Remember to keep children in the bathroom while brushing their teeth. This reduces the risk of choking. It is also important to make sure younger kids don’t lick or eat the toothpaste! This may sound obvious but it is something that can harm their health so it is vital to be careful and to not leave small children unsupervised while cleaning their teeth.

When should I stop watching my kids brush?

Most children should be able to brush their own teeth unsupervised by the age of seven. However it is still recommended that you check occasionally as you need to ensure that they brush properly and do not skip any areas as this is how problems can occur and can lead to sloppy brushing in later life.

What can I do to make sure my child isn’t scared of the dentist?

Simply put you need to set an example. Don’t talk negatively about the dentist even when you are talking with a friend or family member in the next room. Try to be positive and emphasise the fact that dentists are people who are doing an important job. If a child is really worried book them in for a consultation before a check up so they can meet the dentist so they know they are normal people and not scary folk with drills!