The American Dental Association is asking parents and children alike to participate in “Sugar Wars” this February for National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM). In February, thousands of parents, educators, dentists, and healthcare providers will come together to promote the benefits of oral hygiene with a focus on teaching children how to care for their teeth. Battling in the “Sugar Wars” makes oral health fun and exciting. Of course, developing these habits when children are young is crucial to overall oral health.
Your family can participate in NCDHM by making extra efforts to keep teeth healthy at home this month. Now is a great time to schedule an appointment with a dentist at Hudec Dental.
Showing Children How to Properly Brush Their Teeth
Having and maintaining good oral hygiene can be a challenge, even for an adult. Unfortunately, tooth decay is one of the most common problems for children when it comes to oral health—even though it is usually preventable!
Set a good example for your children by brushing at least twice per day. You should also show them some of the following basics of brushing your teeth:
- Brush every tooth, every time you brush.
- Show your children the proper toothbrush angle –it should be roughly 45 degrees.
- Be sure to brush gently along the gum line as well as on the teeth.
- Start at the bottom of the tooth and work up (from the gum line toward the chewing surface of the tooth).
- Use round strokes for the front and back of the teeth.
- Use sweeping strokes for the chewing portions of your teeth.
- Brush the tongue and the roof of the mouth.
- Use a timer or play a song to show children that they should be brushing for at least two minutes each time.
You should also be sure to change your child’s toothbrush roughly 3 to 4 times per year. Some children enjoy picking out a toothbrush that has their favorite characters or colors. There are also some fun-flavored toothpastes that your child may enjoy. Remember to make brushing fun to help your child commit to brushing regularly.
Common Dental Problems for Children
Tooth decay is extremely common in children. It can be caused by sugary foods, fruit juices, and even some starch-heavy foods like pasta, bread, and potatoes—all foods that many children enjoy. Other common problems may include:
- Sensitive teeth
- Bad breath
- Thumb-sucking related problems
- Grinding teeth
- Over-retained baby teeth
- Wisdom teeth
Hudec Dental can help you and your family address all of these common pediatric problems, and NCDHM is the perfect time to think about these issues. Set up an appointment for your child today by calling 216-661-8888.
