Some Jefferson City parents wrongly believe that their child’s primary teeth are somehow less important than their secondary teeth. The fallacy goes like this: “They’re going to fall out, right? We’ll get serious about oral hygiene when their big teeth come in.”
Your child’s primary teeth, or baby teeth, are just as important to their health, speech development, and self-esteem as their permanent teeth.
The twenty primary teeth set the stage for a beautiful smile. Taking care of these teeth is vital!
When Brushing Is A Battle
A child’s loathing is understandable. A parent takes a pokey bristly thing, smears some minty paste on it, puts it in their mouth, and scrubs their teeth with it. No wonder it doesn’t appeal to some toddlers. Sometimes parents want to give up the struggle until their child is older.
We urge you to keep trying. Here are some recommendations for toothbrushing tantrums.
Go Easy On The Toothpaste
If the toothpaste is the issue, brush with a smaller amount or even without it at first. The goal is to remove food particles that will lead to plaque and bacteria, eventually causing tooth decay. Toothpaste is not necessary for removing food particles. Fluoride is important, however. If you are concerned that your child isn’t getting enough, talk to Justin Johnson about fluoride supplements.
Let Your Child Pick Their Toothbrush
Take your youngster to the store and have him or her select a new, soft-bristled toothbrush. Maybe buy two, so he or she has some control in picking which one to use each time Let your child do the brushing first, then review and brush the areas that might have been bypassed.
Make Brushing Family Fun
Brush together as a family. Let your son or daughter know that everyone needs to brush and floss their teeth at least twice a day. Make it fun.
Baby Steps At First
To develop the habit, keep the time short and slowly increase the sessions. Brush heads are hard with bristles that poke. Toothpaste may seem “hot” to some children. Teaching your child that brushing is non-negotiable is the important first step. After it has become part of the routine, add time by singing songs or brushing your teeth at the same time. Some Missouri parents have had success with setting a timer.
Remember The Reinforcement
Compliment your child on their terrific effort in taking care of themselves. Be sure to keep a positive attitude. Let your child know that you love their nice smile and want it to always be shiny white. Positive reinforcement and establishing a routine are critical parts of childhood dental brushing. We want children to be enthusiastic about a habit that will impact their health throughout their life.
Talk To Us About Sealants
If your child continues to struggle with brushing, you may examine sealants. Sealants are beneficial protective barriers applied to the biting surfaces of teeth. A sealant aids in preventing food particles from lodging in difficult places to brush including the pits and grooves in the rear molars. Call 573-634-2400 to schedule an appointment with Jefferson City Dental Care.
Contact Jefferson City Dental Care:
573-634-2400
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
3551 Amazonas Dr
Jefferson City, Missouri
65109
