Though learning to handle dental care every day often takes time, some children pick it up right away. However, pediatric dentists often notice other poor habits that kids do inadvertently. It’s up to you to identify these bad brushing habits and prevent them from affecting your kid’s dental health.

3 Common Bad Brushing Habits Among Kids

1. Brushing Too Often

Kids are encouraged to brush after every meal, but doing so more than three times a day can be detrimental. Frequent brushing can wear down tooth enamel, which leads to sensitivity and an increased risk of decay. Check your child’s toothbrush. Worn and damaged bristles could indicate frequent brushing.

2. Brushing Harshly

Brushing harder doesn’t make teeth any cleaner but can harm enamel. Make sure your child is using gentle motions and covering all chewing surfaces evenly. Young kids should be supervised and gently reminded of proper form until they develop good habits.

3. Using the Wrong Toothbrush

Toothbrush bristles are available in hard, medium, and soft. The harder the bristles, the more likely they will damage the gums and teeth. Provide your child with a soft-bristled brush in the right size for their mouth. An overly large brush won’t be able to fit into tight spaces between teeth. A pediatric dentist can recommend the appropriate size.

Your child will learn proper brushing habits with the help of Allen K. Hirai, DDS, and the rest of the team at Pediatric Dentistry Kahala. As a trusted pediatric dentist with more than two decades of experience, Dr. Hirai makes sure his patients leave their checkups with an understanding of dental care. He also offers services to prevent cavities and decay from forming, like sealants and fluoride treatments. Schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist today by calling (808) 737-0076. You can also find more brushing and flossing tips on their website.