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As a parent, you want to set your children up for a happy, healthy life, and good oral hygiene is part of that mission. Establishing dental care habits now will lay the foundation for their lifelong dental health. But what does diligent oral hygiene look like? La Crosse Pediatric Dentistry in western Wisconsin recommends teaching your kids the following tips.

Establishing Good Oral Hygiene

1. How to Brush

Oral HygieneWhile it's important to brush your teeth twice a day, it’s just as important to do it right. Choose a soft-bristled brush that’s easy on tooth enamel and fluoride toothpaste in a kid-friendly flavor. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle so the bristles can slip under the edge of your gumline. Scrub gently using circular motions, addressing each surface of your mouth, and keep brushing for two full minutes.

2. How to Floss

Cut about a foot of floss, and wrap most of the length around the fingers of both hands, leaving a small length of floss in between. Work this part of the floss in between two teeth and pull it tight against one tooth, forming a “C” shape. Run the floss up and down the surface of the tooth, including just below the gumline. Then, pull the floss tight against the other tooth and repeat. Do this for every gap between your teeth, unwrapping more floss periodically to use a fresh section.

3. Visit the Dentist Regularly

No matter how well you take care of your teeth at home, you need the help of a dentist to maintain sound oral hygiene. Arrange regular dental visits for your children, and help them prepare for those visits so they'll be less likely to suffer from dental anxiety.

If you need help teaching your child the best oral hygiene practices, La Crosse Pediatric Dentistry is happy to lend their guidance. Contact them today at (608) 782-4054 or visit them online for more information.

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