Do you ever wonder why it’s so important to brush your kids’ teeth regularly? They are baby teeth. We know they are going to lose them in a few years and then get their adult teeth.
Dr. Nicholas Waage with Walnut Hills Pediatric Dentistry shares why it’s so important to start good brushing habits when kids are young.
3 Reasons Brushing Your Kids’ Teeth is Important
What is the best advice you give parents who are starting to brush their kid’s teeth?
I tell parents that the most important thing is to get in a routine. Maybe it centers around bathtime, or it can be a family ritual right before bedtime. Kids like structure and knowing that their parents and siblings are taking care of their teeth in the same way.
Make it fun! Stay involved, even as the kids get more and more independent. Take the time to show them and help them get the “hard to reach” areas. This will minimize the risks of preventable dental disease
Why do you tell kids it is important to brush their teeth every day?
We tell the kids to pretend that after snacks there are always some sugar bugs that like to “stick” around. By brushing at nighttime, morning, and after snacks we can remove all of those pesky sugar bugs that can lead to tooth decay/cavities. Healthy teeth lead to healthy bodies in general. Cavities prevent us from having nice smiles and they can keep us from enjoying things like school, sports, and daily activities
Do you have a favorite song you recommend listening to or an app or activity for parents to use while brushing?
My favorite app is called BrushDJ. This app lets you choose the music you want to play for the recommended two minute brush time, so you and your kids know exactly when to stop brushing. Added features include videos on how to properly floss your teeth and reminders for your next dentist visit.
Another favorite is Brush Up. This app uses your phone’s camera as a “virtual mirror” so kids can watch themselves and a video teaching them how to brush while they are brushing. When your kids are done, the video is captured of their brushing and they can earn rewards for proper brushing technique.
For more brushing tips check out 7 Ways to Make Brushing Fun for Kids and A Family Guide to Healthy Smiles.
Connect with Walnut Hills Pediatric Dentistry
64 E. Hickman Rd, Waukee
515-987-1155
This is so amazing! Thank you so much for taking the time to share this information with us!
click here
When your baby gets teeth, brush them with an infant toothbrush. Use water and a tiny bit of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice). Use fluoride toothpaste that carries the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance.