Tips for teeth brushing

Dr. Jennifer Roberson, with Ingleside Dental Associates in Macon, said dental dexterity is not fully developed until a child is 8 or 9 years old. She recommends giving kids the independence of brushing their own teeth but suggests a parent come back in to reach the posterior teeth. Roberson also shares a few tips on getting kids to brush and floss their teeth.

• Try using an electronic toothbrush instead of the traditional kind as it can make brushing more fun.

• Kids need to brush for two minutes at least twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. To make sure they hit this mark, have them use a timer or brush their teeth to a song. She recommends a two-minute song called “Brush your Teeth.”

• Allow the kids to be a part of the dental health process by choosing the flavor of toothpaste they want and a toothbrush with their favorite character on it.

• For flossing, use floss forks as it makes it easier for kids to reach between their teeth.

• Most tooth decay comes from eating after brushing teeth at bedtime so make sure children only drink water after the nightly brushing.

• Children should see the dentist twice a year starting no later than their first birthday.

-- Conner Wood, Center for Collaborative Journalism



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