February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, a public health event brought to us by the American Dental Association (ADA). The purpose of this month-long celebration is to bring parents, caregivers, teachers, and healthcare providers like your dentist in Bakersfield together to raise awareness of the importance of proper oral hygiene and dental care in children. The theme for 2023 is Brush, Floss, Smile!, and there are tons of ways you can help make dental care more fun for the children in your life.
“Brush, Floss, Smile!”
This year’s slogan is Brush, Floss, Smile! helps both kids and caregivers learn just how important it is for kids to brush their teeth regularly as well as floss in between each and every tooth. To help, ADA has put together fun, interactive games and activities to make learning about dental care fun for kids. Head on over the ADA website and download all sorts of free educational tools including coloring sheets, crossword puzzles, and a calendar to keep track of brushing habits.
How Should Kids Brush & Floss?
Brushing and flossing tiny teeth are important, but your dentist in Bakersfield will also encourage you to make sure your little ones are doing them correctly. Developing proper technique and a solid routine will help children throughout their lives..
Proper Brushing
Kids and adults should brush their teeth twice a day, once when you wake up in the morning and once before bed at night. Use the following techniques:
- Angle the toothbrush against the gum line at a 45-degrees
- Gently scrub teeth using small circles with the brush
- Brush all surfaces of each tooth and up under the gums
- Brush the tongue from back to front
A thorough brushing should take about two minutes. Don’t shy away from humming songs or finding two-minute brushing videos to turn a habit into a fun activity.
Proper Flossing
It’s just as important for kids to floss once a day as it is for adults, and little ones should start flossing whenever they have two teeth that touch each other. But like brushing, flossing requires a specific technique, and it can be hard for kids. The best way to floss is gently wiggle the floss in between each tooth and curve it up under the gums. You can try traditional floss but you may have more success with a floss pick.
While brushing and flossing are crucial for all smiles, maintaining visits to your dentist in Bakersfield is also necessary. Schedule an appointment today!
