In the Know for You To Know

Preschooler’s work hard. Between all the running, playing, and learning their days are full.

Their teeth also work hard. That’s why taking your time to brush their teeth helps keep them clean and healthy.

How do you grow those healthy teeth? Here’s what I want you to know.

#1 How Often Should Preschoolers Visit The Pediatric Dentist?

At these ages we recommend that your child’s teeth be examined and cleaned every 6 months.

These visits are important since we talk with you about: oral hygiene, fluoride toothpaste, your child’s diet and how it affects their teeth; and what you can expect in terms of growth and dental development. We also discuss any habits they may have like thumb or finger sucking, and pacifiers.

#2 Preschooler’s May Not Want To Sit Still

For 2 and sometimes 3 and 4 year olds, you and your pediatric dentist sit facing each other in a knee to knee position supporting your child’s head on their lap.

Some children this age may want to sit in the dental chair and show you “how big they are” or they may sit after a little reassurance that they are safe and will be getting their teeth counted.

Dental Appointment Times Make A Difference

For young children, morning appointments can be easier since they are well rested and have less time to worry about their visit.

Be sure to choose a time that works best for your child’s routine to help create a more positive dental experience.

#3 Some Children Can Be Afraid At The Dentist’s Office

Preschooler’s may or may not be leery of dental surroundings. Some children may cry, others may be hesitant, and still others will happily walk in.

It’s always important for your child to be comfortable with their dental visits.

#4 What You Should Be Doing At Home

At this age children can’t brush and floss their teeth on their own. So parents, you really need to brush and floss your preschooler’s teeth.

As soon as 2 teeth are touching it’s time to start flossing, and brush their teeth 2X’s a day. Once in the morning and again at night.

2X’s a day is best. But if you really really really need to pick one time, the most important time to brush your child’s teeth is right before bedtime after you floss their teeth.

And, always remember to brush their tongue.

How Much Toothpaste Should You Use?

If your child is 3 years old and younger, only use a rice grain size (the size of an uncooked grain of rice) amount of fluoride toothpaste to brush their teeth.

If your child is older than 3 years old, only put a (small green) pea size amount of fluoride toothpaste on their toothbrush.

#5 Special Dental Issues To Be Aware Of

Children love to explore whether they toddle, walk, run, climb, or jump. So the possibility always exists that teeth can get hurt.

Falls from high chairs, strollers and shopping carts, as well as automobile accidents, are frequent causes of tooth and/or mouth injuries.

The teeth most commonly hurt are the lower and/or upper front teeth. There’s also the possibility that the gums, tongue, cheeks or lips can be injured or bruised.

Set your child up for a lifetime of happy smiles. Start now to keep their teeth healthy!

What are your preschooler tooth challenges? Share with us your tips and tricks to make toothbrushing fun. Tell Us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email at kidstoothhotline@proton.me Like Us on Facebook

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!