Here are some toothbrush care tips to share with your patients: SEM images comparing new and used toothbrush bristles (Used with permission from Applied Science Accessed April 25, 2016). Also, when brushing, the ADA recommends that people use a soft-bristled toothbrush and apply gentle pressure, both of which may help reduce the risk of gingival injury. Regardless of the technique used, brushing should touch upon all surfaces-inner, outer and chewing. 6 To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, they should tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes. 5 In general, the American Dental Association suggests that people place the toothbrush against the gumline at a 45-degree angle to remove plaque from above and just below the gingival margin, and move the toothbrush gently back and forth in short strokes. There are a number of techniques for brushing teeth any of which may have advantages depending on a patient’s particular needs. Brushing for two minutes has been shown to achieve clinically significant plaque removal 3 and use of a toothpaste containing fluoride enhances fluoride concentration levels in biofilm fluid and saliva, and is associated with decreased risk of caries and remineralization of teeth. The American Dental Association recommends brushing teeth twice a day for two minutes using a fluoride toothpaste. Children should be assisted by or supervised by an adult and should be instructed to spit the excess toothpaste out after brushing. Once children are 3 years or older, they can use a pea-sized drop of fluoridated toothpaste. 2 As children become more coordinated with age, they should be able to brush their own teeth under adult supervision, continuing to use a child-sized toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles.Ĭhildren younger than 3 years should use a smear of fluoridated toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. The toothbrush should have soft bristles and a head small enough to easily maneuver inside the child’s mouth, reaching all tooth surfaces. Generally, caregivers should brush an infant’s teeth twice a day, using a child-sized toothbrush. 1, 2Ĭaregivers should follow instructions from their child’s dentist. Therefore, the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry agree that brushing should begin as soon as the first tooth erupts. Replace toothbrushes every 3 to 4 monthsĪll of the University of Michigan’s Dental Plan options provide coverage for two fluoride treatments annually for children under 19 who are enrolled in your plan.As soon as primary teeth start to erupt, which may be as early as 6 months of age, they are at risk of tooth decay.Eat healthy foods and limit sugary beverages.Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. ![]() Promote the benefits of good oral health with the following tips: Talk to your child about the importance of caring for their teeth and remember to schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist within six months of the arrival of a child’s first tooth. This month-long national health observance reinforces the importance of oral health in children as well as helping parents with tips. ![]() ![]() Did you know? According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, tooth decay remains the most common chronic childhood disease, but it is largely preventable.ĭuring the month of February, the American Dental Association celebrates National Children’s Dental Health Month.
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