Important Dental Stuff 4 Kids

Brush twice a day ~ Floss once a day ~ Eat healthy foods

Visit your dentist at least twice a year

Protect your teeth while playing sports

Proper Brushing and Flossing

~ Proper brushing removes plaque from the inner, outer and chewing surfaces. The correct way to brush is to place your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle; start along gum line with a soft bristle brush in a gentle circular motion. Brush the outer surfaces of each tooth, upper and lower. Repeat the same method on the inside surfaces and chewing surfaces of all the teeth. Finish by brushing the tongue to help freshen breath and remove bacteria.

~ Flossing removes plaque between the teeth, where a toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing should begin when any two teeth touch. Use about 18 inches of floss, winding most of it around the middle fingers of both hands. Hold the floss lightly between the thumbs and forefingers. Use a gentle, back-and-forth motion to guide the floss between the teeth. Curve the floss into a C-shape and slide it into the space between the gum and tooth until you feel resistance. Gently scrape the floss against the side of the tooth. Repeat this procedure on each tooth. Don’t forget the backs of the last four teeth. If you have a difficult time flossing, be sure to ask an adult to help you.

A Good Diet = Healthy Teeth

~ Healthy eating habits lead to healthy, happy teeth. Like the rest of the body, the teeth, bones and the soft tissues of the mouth need a well-balanced diet. Kids should eat a variety of foods from the five major food groups. Most snacks that kids eat can lead to cavity formation. The more frequently you snack, the greater the chance for tooth decay. How long food remains in your mouth also plays a role. For example, hard candy and breath mints stay in the mouth a long time, which cause longer acid attacks on tooth enamel. If you must snack, choose nutritious foods such as vegetables, low-fat yogurt, and low-fat cheese, which are healthier and better for your teeth.

Mouth Guards

~ While contact sports may require mouth guards to be mandatory, most the majority of mouth injuries occur in children between the ages of 7 and 14, often while participating in commonplace activities like skateboarding, rollerblading or bike riding. Other sports where mouth guards are proven to prevent injuries include are baseball, soccer, basketball, martial arts, skiing, volleyball and gymnastics. Mouth guards should be worn during all activities where there is a risk of falling or head contact.





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