Share:

Your child’s teeth are one of their most vital features—they help them to chew their food, develop clear speaking patterns, and maintain natural jaw function. Because of their significance to your son or daughter’s health, it is important to promote excellent oral hygiene from a young age. In addition to avoiding sugary foods and visiting the dentist twice a year, you should also work to foster effective brushing habits.

Dr. Dean T. Sueda, DDS, MS is a pediatric dentist in Honolulu, HI. Below, he and his dental care staff list some of their top tips for children’s brushing:

  • Early Start: The sooner you get your child into the habit of brushing their teeth, the likelier they are to carry the act into adulthood. Beginning in infancy, wipe your child’s mouth with a gauze or wet washcloth after each feeding. Once they get their first tooth, brush it using an appropriately sized toothbrush and a tiny amount of toothpaste. Encourage them to complete the task on their own as they grow older. 
  • dental careTwice a Day: Include brushing as part of your child’s daily routine in the morning and evening. Have them brush shortly after waking up and then once more before they go to sleep. Over time, this will become so ingrained in their habits, you may not even have to remind them to do so.
  • Two-Minute Duration: Your child should be brushing for at least two minutes. You can come up with a few different tactics to ensure they go the full duration. Some parents play a song, others use a timer, and some toothbrushes come with their own alarm system. Find a method that works for you and is enjoyable for your child.
  • Group Activity: The best way to encourage excellent dental care is to lead by example. Children—especially young kids—love to imitate their parents. Brush alongside them using perfect form, and you’ll find them mirroring your technique.
  • Engaging Methods: If kids are not enthusiastic about brushing, experiment with ways to make the process fun for them. Purchase toothbrushes and toothpaste that feature their favorite characters and unique flavors. You can also try a reward system where your child receives stickers or prizes for maintaining their brushing routine. Switch up the approach until you find one that works for your family.

For more dental care tips for your child, contact the office or Dr. Dean T. Sueda, DDS, MS by calling (808) 944-1603. To schedule an appointment or for more information on preventative dentistry, visit the website today.

tracking