Just because your child is going to lose their baby teeth, that doesn't mean they shouldn't brush twice a day and floss.
In fact, proper care of baby teeth is essential for healthy adult teeth. Children can be rough with many things, including the brushing of their teeth. You can work with your children to teach them how not to brush too roughly.
What Happens When You Brush Too Hard?
You might think that brushing harder would mean getting rid of more plaque, keeping your teeth cleaner and therefore healthier.
It's actually quite the opposite. Brushing too hard can remove enamel, exposing dentin, where open canals to the tooth root live. This can lead to severe sensitivity. Aggressive brushing also irritates the gums, causing pain and also allowing bacteria to enter, which can lead to infection.
Provide the Right Tools
Getting the right toothbrush for your child is important. A child's mouth is smaller than an adult's, and an adult toothbrush is just too big. Get your child a children's toothbrush. Also, make sure the bristles are soft. This will give extra assurance against damage.
Demonstrate
Show your child how to properly brush their teeth. First, brush their teeth for them, so they understand how much pressure they should be using. Then, brush your teeth with them, showing them not only pressure, but how long to brush and at what angle. Give them a step-stool so they can watch themselves in the mirror.
Supervise
Even after you are confident that your child can brush their teeth on their own, you should still monitor them. If they start brushing too hard, correct them. Children should be supervised while brushing until approximately the age of six.
Brushing too hard can do significant damage. Even damage done to baby teeth can affect a child's adult teeth. Showing your children how to properly brush their teeth now is critical for their oral health later.
Please contact our office if you have any questions about brushing your teeth.
