Dental hygiene is important year round. But since 2009, October has been designated as National Dental Hygiene Month–a month set aside to appreciate dental hygienists and focus on oral health. And the best way to participate? Making small changes to prioritize your family’s dental hygiene and oral care routines!
We teamed up with Dr. Bob Pediatric Dentist to bring you 4 ways to brush up on oral care this month.
Floss Daily
I hear you, Mama. When flossing is the only thing standing between you and bedtime (yours or the kids’!) it can be hard to be consistent. But it’s a habit that’s SUPER important for healthy teeth and gums. Flossing significantly reduces cavity-causing plaque and bacteria, which promotes oral health and improves dental hygiene.
Wondering when to begin? The current recommendation is to begin when the 2nd baby molars have come in. These molars typically come in around 2.5-3 years of age. Start in the back–since front teeth are typically more spaced out–and floss between any teeth that our touching. The sooner we incorporate flossing into our kids’ routines, the better. And the great news? It’s never too late to start!
For more on flossing and other pediatric dental topics, check out this exclusive Q&A.
Don’t Rush the Brush
Brush twice a day, for 2 minutes. The best way to help your kids maintain this dental hygiene habit is to create a morning schedule and bedtime routine. Having consistent routines helps us all maintain healthy habits, and this is true for oral care too! Though it’s more about brushing technique than manual vs. electric toothbrushes, some electric toothbrushes have built-in timers that help kids brush for a full 2 minutes. Check out one of Dr. Bob’s favorites here.
And don’t forget the toothpaste! Sometimes one of the hardest things to get around when it comes to getting a child to use toothpaste is the flavor. Dr. Bob Unflavored Toothpaste is derived from plants and vegetables, and is naturally sweetened with xylitol. This toothpaste is the first and only US-based unflavored fluoridated toothpaste on the market, and it’s ideal for picky palates and those with taste aversions or sensitivities. Order yours at the Dr. Bob Oral Care website or on Amazon.
Rinse With Mouthwash
Mouthwash is antimicrobial and can help swish out particles and bacteria that may be left behind after flossing and brushing. But let’s talk about it for a minute. Because most of them have added fluoride, it’s important that kids are able to spit it out and not swallow it. When they’re mature enough to handle it, choose one that comes in fun flavors like bubble gum, watermelon, grape, or this one that even comes in pineapple!
Schedule Your Dental Appointments
The American Dental Association recommends dental exams and cleanings for everyone–adults and children–every 6 months. Seeing the dentist regularly is one of the best ways to maintain healthy teeth and gums, and prioritize dental health.
If you’re looking for a local pediatric dentist, give Dr. Bob a call! Dr. Bob Pediatric Dentist is a small boutique practice conveniently located in South Miami. You will love the level of personalized dental care your children will receive, and your kids will love going to the dentist again. Call the office at 305-397-8214 or click here to schedule an appointment today. You’ll be glad you did!
With Halloween coming up, be sure to check out these posts on sugar and cavity prevention, and enjoying Halloween candy in moderation. You can follow Dr. Bob Pediatric Dentist on Instagram and Facebook.
