Exclusive:
From fruity flavoured toothpaste to playing a favourite song in the background, there are ways to make brushing your youngster’s dental regime easier, says a leading dentist
Recent research revealed six in ten children in some areas of the UK are suffering from rotting teeth from the age of just five.
And while we all have a responsibility to maintain our youngster’s oral health, brushing the teeth of a strong-willed tot isn’t always straight forward. Some parents have to resort to pinning down their youngsters to complete the task, with many mums and dads facing daily battles trying to coax their littles ones into letting them give their pearly whites a quick once over.
Thankfully, Dr Vanessa Creaven is on hand to offer her top tips on how to make the whole process easier. The dentist and Spotlight Oral Care co-founder advises parents on what to do at every age and stage and her tips may surprise you…
How do you get a toddler to brush their teeth?
“Play a song – this always makes the time go quicker,” said the dentist and Spotlight Oral Care co-founder in a suggestion to set the scene. “Then make sure the toothpaste is a flavour they love – strawberry or bubblegum are top flavours for kids, they really enjoy the taste. Thirdly, having a playful or fun character can really establish a great brushing routine.”
What age should your child start brushing their teeth?
‘”For children under the age of two, it is recommended to use a damp muslin cloth and gently wipe the teeth,” said Vanessa. “It’s a great way to get your child used to their teeth being cleaned. For 2+, brushing should be done twice a day, for at least two minutes. Brushing before food first thing in the morning and last thing at night will ensure the active ingredients in the toothpaste embed in the teeth and work effectively.”
Do children need to floss?
“You may have thought flossing was just for grown-ups, but flossing for children is essential,” said Vanessa. “Flossing helps remove food debris that gets caught between their teeth which can act as a breeding ground for bacteria and contributes to plaque buildup. We suggest that children start flossing as soon as two of their teeth begin to touch together anywhere from ages 2-3 and will need help with flossing until ages 8-10. You should aim to floss everyday with them to keep gaps between teeth as clean and maintained as possible.
What about the gums?
When brushing, children should aim the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards the gum line and using a gentle circular motion. Repeat on the inside surfaces and use a light back and forth action on the chewing surfaces of teeth. Gums require brushing too. Gums are where plaque starts to grow, forming along the gum line and growing down to the tip of the tooth. That’s why it’s so important to teach children to brush at an angle half on the gum and half of the tooth to ensure proper plaque control.”