Toothpaste and Brushing Patterns

Caring for children’s teeth is crucial for maintaining their overall oral health. Proper brushing habits will help prevent cavities, along with many other problems. Starting a proper oral care routine for your child at an early age will help ensure a healthy smile for a lifetime.

What’s the Latest News? 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released a study examining the use of toothpaste and toothbrushing patterns among children and adolescents in the United States from 2013-2016. The report aligns with The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommendations by reinforcing the joint AAPD,  American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and The American Dental Association (ADA) guidelines on the optimal use of fluoride toothpaste. 

In the report, the CDC recommends that children start using fluoride toothpaste at the age of 2 to help lower the risk of developing cavities while making sure to use no more than a smear of fluoridated toothpaste for children less than three years of age. 

Prevention Is the Best Cure

The good news is that tooth decay can be prevented. Regular visits to the pediatric dentist and using the recommended toothpaste at the correct time offers the preventive measures needed for healthy teeth and is beneficial to establishing proper oral health habits for a lifetime. 

What Is the Proper Teeth Brushing Technique?

Start by placing your child’s toothbrush beside the teeth at a 45-degree angle. Gently brush a group of teeth at a time in a circular or elliptical motion until all the teeth are cleaned. Make sure your child brushes the outside of the teeth, the inside of the teeth, and the chewing surfaces. Teach your child to gently brush the tongue to remove bacteria and freshen the breath. Your child will need to brush at least twice a day for at least two minutes. 

What Type of Toothbrush Should Be Used?

Your child will need to use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head and a handle suitable for firm grasping. Soft bristles will ensure that brushing is gentle on the gums and tooth surfaces, and will also allow you to reach the crevices between the teeth and gums without harming the gums. Your child will need to apply gentle pressure to remove plaque. Excessive pressure can result in gums receding and is abrasive to the teeth surfaces.

Which Type of Toothpaste Is Best?

The most important ingredient in your child’s toothpaste is fluoride. All fluoride toothpaste effectively removes plaque, cleans and polishes the tooth enamel, and prevents cavities. Make sure the toothpaste you choose has the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval, which ensures your child has a safe and effective brushing experience.

Contact Us Today

Visit us today at Smile Explorers, your trusted Deer Valley, AZ Pediatric Dentist, to learn more about keeping your child’s teeth bright and healthy. Our experienced and child-friendly staff will provide your child with quality, gentle care. We are all about keeping your child’s smile healthy for a lifetime. Call us and schedule your child’s appointment today!