Teaching your kids how to brush their teeth is important even from an early age.

Teaching your kids how to brush their teeth is important even from an early age. Whether or not they’re scared to go to the dentist, when you help them understand how they can take care of their teeth, they might be less anxious to go to their next appointment.

The Question of Fluoride

Fluoride is a key component of toothpaste, but it isn’t in all toothpaste. Along with calcium and phosphate, using fluoride can help build stronger teeth. Food and water will contain tiny amounts of this vital mineral, but the most common way to get it into your child’s system is through toothpaste and treatments at the dentist’s office.

Overexposure of anything can be a bad thing, and that includes fluoride. This may lead to oddly colored white or brown spots developing on your youngster’s teeth. This is known as fluorosis. That’s why if you are trying to teach your toddler how to brush their teeth, you should wait; at first, it’ll be much easier to brush their teeth for them. However, you need to wait until they can spit out the used toothpaste instead of swallowing it. In the meantime, fluoride-free toothpaste is the way to go. After they’ve gained the skills they need to try something new, you can start giving them toothpaste with fluoride in it.

For Toddlers

As your children get older, they’ll pick up plenty of skills they need for later life. While it may be too soon to introduce them to flossing and mouthwash, brushing is still important. Teething may be a painful experience for them, but once the teeth are there, encourage your kids to keep their teeth looking good. Ask your dentist which fluoride toothpaste you should use.

Then, you can start brushing your toddler’s teeth twice a day, just as you would brush your own teeth. Make sure you get all of the teeth, the gums, and the tongue too. By turning it into a game, you can also make them excited for toothbrush time, especially when you are trying to settle them into a bedtime routine.

You Can Trust Olney Dental for All of Your Dental Care Needs

For all of your oral care questions and concerns, Olney Dental has the expertise and professionalism to get them the answers they need. Olney Dental is ready to supply you with expert service in a professional environment. Schedule an appointment online today! For more information on how we can give your family the best dentist experience available, give us a call at (301) 250-1057 or contact us online. For more dental tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, YouTube, and Pinterest.