Children typically have most of their teeth by the time they are two years old. Children can start brushing their own teeth once they get older and have better coordination. We encourage parents to supervise and assist kids with brushing as needed between the ages of two and six. The goal is to ensure that proper brushing technique is used and that all tooth surfaces are cleaned so that the risk of early childhood tooth decay is limited. Brushing twice a day and flossing are your best allies for maintaining a healthy mouth.
If you would like to use fluoride toothpaste, choose one that does not exceed 500 ppm. Toothpaste with 1000 ppm fluoride may be used for children over the age of six, depending on your dentist’s recommendations.
Parents should pay special attention to teeth located at the back of the mouth, since these often get missed during brushing. Did you know that children between the ages of six and 13 are more prone to cavities in their molars and pre-molars? A dental seal can help prevent bacteria from accumulating in the fissures on the biting surfaces of teeth.
It’s important to teach children good oral hygiene habits from a young age. A healthy mouth leads to better chewing, better overall health and increased self-esteem.