2 Minutes
Children should brush for two minutes twice a day and floss once a day for healthy pearly whites.
First Birthday
Children should get their first oral exam as soon as their first tooth comes in – or by their first birthday. As children get older, they should have dental checkups every six months.
3 Months
Soft bristles are best for kids’ toothbrushes, along with larger easy-to-grip handles. Very small heads are designed just for baby teeth. Replace a toothbrush as soon as the bristles look worn or frayed – about every three months.
Smart Kids
Each year, kids miss 51 million hours of school because of oral health problems. These students miss critical instruction time, especially in the early grades where basic math and reading skills are taught. Healthy teeth = smarter kids!
Stop Pop
Rethink your drink! To keep kids’ teeth healthy and strong, choose water over sugar-sweetened beverages like sports drinks, juice and soda pop.
60 Minutes
A tooth that’s been knocked out only has 60 minutes to survive if kept in a dry environment. If your children play sports, be sure they always wear a mouthguard.
- For newborns and infants, put a smear of toothpaste on the toothbrush. When children reach preschool age, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.
- Start with your molars (your chewing teeth). Use small, circular strokes along the sides of the tooth. Then repeat on the chewing surface.
- Brush each molar, moving from the back of your mouth to the front.
- To brush your front teeth, use small circular strokes around the entire surface.
- Brush the backs of your teeth by keeping your toothbrush upright and brushing up and down.
- To finish, rinse your mouth with some water.
- Don’t forget to floss to maintain the healthiest smile!
Brought to you by Delta Dental. Find more information at deltadentalmi.com.
