Over the last couple of years, we’ve been pleased to partner with our friends at Dr. Bob Pediatric Dentist to bring you helpful information related to pediatric dental health and hygiene. Together, we’ve discussed and learned TONS on topics ranging from lip and tongue ties, proper toothbrushing techniques, dental emergencies, self-care habits, breastfeeding, infant oral care, and much more!
Dr. Bob’s Favorite Things
This month, we are bringing you a list of Dr. Bob’s favorite dental hygiene products to help you and your child(ren) reach your dental health goals together. Ready? Let’s do this!
Dr. Bob Unflavored Toothpaste
Dr. Bob recently shared with us that one of the hardest things to get around when it comes to getting a child to use toothpaste is the flavor. This is why he and his wife–who is also a pediatric dentist–have created the first and only US-based unflavored fluoridated toothpaste on the market! This natural, fluoridated toothpaste is made in the USA and is great for kids and adults with taste sensitivities. It’s also free of SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate), gluten, titanium dioxide, and dye. Read more and order yours at the Dr. Bob Oral Care website or on Amazon!
GumChucks & Refills
Flossing is a very important aspect of dental hygiene. Get your kids excited about flossing (at least) once a day with GumChucks! Designed to look like little nunchucks, they promote the recommended “C” shape technique to effectively remove plaque from teeth and gums. They’re comfortable, easy to use, and help develop our littles ones’ dexterity which also helps them with brushing. And they’re fun! Both the GumChucks starter kits and refills are available for purchase on Amazon.
Electric Toothbrush
Dr. Bob often gets asked about manual vs. electric toothbrushes for kids. The truth is as long as you’re following the proper toothbrushing technique, it doesn’t matter. You can read more on this topic here.
But that being said, there are some advantages when it comes to electric toothbrushes for kids. One advantage is that it’s like a cool toy–with a timer, lights, songs, etc. to motivate kids to use it. This favorite of Dr. Bob’s includes a built-in timer to help kids brush for a full 2 minutes, and is also compatible with the Oral B Disney Magic Timer App. Win-win!
ACT Mouthwash
Let’s talk about mouthwash. Most mouthwashes have added fluoride, which means it’s important that children are able to spit it out and not ingest it. When they are old enough to use it without swallowing it and can effectively spit it out, Dr. Bob’s favorite is the ACT Kids Anticavity Children’s Mouthwash. It helps to swish out particles that may be left behind after brushing, and comes in fun flavors like bubble gum, watermelon, grape, and pineapple. Check it out here.
TGuard & Finger Guard
Thumb sucking/finger sucking is a hard habit to break… especially because you can’t just make it disappear like a pacifier. TGuard and TGuard AeroFinger are 2 products Dr. Bob recommends to help kids break the habit quickly and effectively. Each kit contains everything you need to break the thumb/finger sucking habit, and also includes access to US-based support during the course of treatment.
360 Cup
I love these cups. Made by Munchkin, these spill-proof cups help kids learn to confidently drink from a regular cup. When my kids were toddlers, we bought several for the house and diaper bag and never looked back. The unique design of these cups helps toddlers develop oral muscles, and they’re easier to clean than traditional sippy cups. These are available on Amazon as well.
The Doctor Is In
It’s always a good time to schedule and catch up on routine dental exams for the kids. If you are looking for a local pediatric dentist, look no further than Dr. Bob Pediatric Dentist. A small boutique practice located in the heart of South Miami, Dr. Bob and his team are on a mission to provide the exceptional care your child deserves.
His practice is open Monday through Friday, and he’s currently accepting new patients. Dr. Bob Pediatric Dentist also accepts all major PPO plans, and his team is always happy to discuss your specific coverage or help you schedule an appointment. Contact the office via the website or by phone at 305-397-8214. You can also follow Dr. Bob Pediatric Dentist on Instagram and Facebook.