Oral hygiene in children must be instilled from an early age. The earlier parents teach it, the easier it is for children to make this habit a routine. However, when the hell Should children start brushing their teeth?
Healthy teeth and gums play a role in your baby's overall health. Therefore, dental care for children should be started since the first teeth erupt. But it doesn't stop there, children also need to be taught to brush their teeth regularly so that they can maintain their dental and oral health independently and so on.
When Should Children Start Brushing Teeth?
Cleaning children's teeth actually has to start when their first teeth grow, which is 6 months old. However, how to clean it simply by wiping the teeth using a handkerchief or a small soft towel. Then, when can you start brushing your little one's teeth?
Dental hygienists actually differ on this point. Some of them suggest that children start brushing their teeth since the first 4 teeth grow. However, some others suggest delaying until the child is 2-3 years old.
When brushing your little one's teeth, make sure the toothbrush used is small and specifically for children, OK?, Bun. Make it a habit to brush your teeth twice a day.
When your little one is 3 years old or is able to hold light items, such as a pencil or toothbrush, you can start inviting him to hold his own toothbrush. After that, help him rub the brush against his teeth slowly. Mother can also intersperse with singing so that brushing teeth becomes more exciting and she likes it so she can brush her own teeth.
The child's tooth brushing routine must be accompanied by a parent or adult until the child is 6 years old. This is because generally children under the age of 6 years do not have good coordination when brushing their own teeth, so they still need a companion.
After the age of 6 years, then the child can be released to brush his own teeth. However, keep reminding your little one to brush his teeth regularly until he brushes regularly without being reminded, right, Bun.
There are many benefits that can be obtained if children are accustomed to keeping their teeth clean, ranging from preventing tooth decay, gum disease, to cavities that are prone to be experienced by children.
Get to know a variety of tips for brushing your child's teeth
Here are some ways you can do in brushing your little one's teeth using a toothbrush:
- Choose a toothbrush with a small size. Soak the toothbrush in warm water for a few minutes before using it. If it's still hard, soak the toothbrush in warm water again.
- Apply toothpaste the size of a grain of rice on the surface of the brush for the initial period of teething. After 3 years old, you can apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.
- When brushing your little one's teeth, focus on where the teeth and gums meet. Remember, do it gently.
- Ask your little one to spit out the excess toothpaste and foam the paste from his mouth. After that, ask him to rinse his mouth with clean water.
- Get in the habit of brushing your child's teeth 2 times a day, after breakfast and before going to bed.
- Change your child's toothbrush every 3-4 months and prevent other people from using your little one's toothbrush.
- Finally, store the toothbrush in a standing position in a dry and open container.
Getting children to brush their teeth regularly from an early age is very important. However, don't forget. Mom and Dad should also set an example of good brushing for your little one, so that he can imitate this good habit from Mom and Dad. In addition, don't forget to take your child to the dentist to check the condition of his teeth and ask for advice on the right treatment. It is recommended that a child's first dental examination is started from the age of 2 years.
