FAQs About Preschoolers And Dental Health: Brushing, Toothpaste, The Children's Dentist, And More
by Gregory Price
How can you help your preschooler to maintain a healthy smile? From brushing their teeth to visiting the children's dentist, take a look at the top questions parents have about their three- to six-year-old's dental care.
How Often Should A Preschooler Brush Their Teeth?
Even though your child doesn't have permanent teeth yet, they still need to brush daily. Healthy oral hygiene practices can reduce the risk of cavities and the potential problems that come along with them. While it may not seem like your preschooler needs their baby teeth, these teeth help them to chew, speak, and help to ensure proper spacing as their permanent teeth come in.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that children ages three through six brush their teeth the same number of times as adults—at least two times per day. Your preschooler should brush in the morning and before bed. If possible, they can also brush after meals or snacks.
Can Preschoolers Use Charcoal Toothpaste?
Charcoal toothpaste is a popular trendy dental product. But it isn't the best choice for your child. This type of toothpaste uses activated charcoal as a cleansing agent. The gritty paste can wear away dental enamel (the outer coating of the teeth). Instead of charcoal paste products, choose a fluoride-containing option that is made for children to use.
Can Preschoolers Use Dental Floss?
Yes, preschoolers can use floss. Food can get stuck in between your child's teeth, making it difficult to remove with a brush. Floss can push this debris out and reduce the risk of cavity development. If your child doesn't have the fine motor (hand and finger) skills to handle the floss, you can help them to use this beneficial dental product.
Does Your Preschooler Need To See A Dentist for Kids?
Children's dentistry is a specialty type of practice. These dentists have extra training in pediatrics. This training provides the practitioner with the knowledge and hands-on skills necessary to examine, diagnose, and treat infants, toddlers, preschoolers, young children, and teens.
How Often Should Your Preschooler Visit the Kids Dentistry Practice?
By the time your child reaches age three, they should have already had their first dental office experience. The ADA notes that children should visit the dentist when their primary teeth start to come in or by their first birthday. Provided your preschooler doesn't have special dental needs, they can visit the children's dentist every six months. If your child is at increased risk for dental decay or gum disease, they may need to see the dentist more often.
For more info, contact a local children's dentist.
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About Me
Up until a year ago, I did my best to keep my teeth and gums clean. But after securing a new job, I began to work late into the night and didn't have the time or energy to brush and floss before I retired to bed. My busy schedule and poor dental hygiene finally affected my teeth and gums. After experiencing severe pain in several of my teeth, I made an appointment with my dentist. My dentist examined my mouth and discovered three large cavities in my molars. After four long weeks, my dentist finally completed my dental work. I learned a very painful lesson during that time. No matter how busy you are, always brush and floss. I started this blog to inform other people about the importance of good dental care. I hope you find the time to read it. Thanks for visiting.
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