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Your child’s oral hygiene will impact the growth, development, and condition of their permanent teeth down the road. Even toddlers are susceptible to cavities and gingivitis, so teaching them the proper dental care habits is imperative. To ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles for your little one, implement these tips into their daily routine early on.

Don’t Forget These Top Oral Hygiene Tips

1. Use Fluoride Toothpaste

To promote strong, healthy teeth, use fluoride-enriched toothpaste and treatments. To fight cavities, the American Dental Association recommends using a tiny drop of fluoride toothpaste for children under 3 years old and a pea-size amount for kids from 3 to 6.

2. Start Dental Visits Early

oral hygieneCavities can develop as soon as your baby’s first tooth emerges. To prevent oral issues, visit a pediatric dentist before the age of 1, or as soon as their first tooth begins to poke through. The dentist will help your child warm up to the office, as well as assess any potential issues with their oral health or development.

3. Use the Right Tools From the Start

Even when your baby’s adorable smile is all gums, bacteria may breed and cause oral issues. To prevent problems, wipe their mouth with a warm, clean washcloth twice a day. After that, select a child-size toothbrush that comfortably fits in their mouth. You may also want to use a flossing device to make cleaning between the teeth easier.

4. Employ Proper Technique

It can be hard to thoroughly brush a squirming toddler’s teeth. However, proper form is imperative to remove harmful bacteria and plaque. Don’t be too aggressive or brief; gently brush in small circles for a minimum of two minutes. Don’t forget the tongue, roof the mouth, and back molars.

5. Floss Every Day

Many adults skip daily flossing, so it’s no wonder that so many of their children do, too. However, flossing remains vital to preventing gum disease at every stage of life. As soon as your kid’s teeth touch each other, use floss to get food and bacteria out from between them.

 

To ensure a lifetime of healthy oral hygiene for your kid, consult Wisconsin’s trusted pediatric dentists. The team from La Crosse Pediatric Dentistry offers the expert, compassionate care your little ones deserve. They work with children every day and will ensure your little one is comfortable throughout the experience. Visit the practice’s website for more information, and call (608) 782-4054 to schedule an appointment today.

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