Top 5 Nighttime Tips to Ensure Good Oral Health in Kids
Brushing your teeth twice a day is essential for better oral health. But according to the statistics, nearly 30% of people do not brush their teeth before bedtime. And, as kids generally follow adults, they often try to skip brushing as well.
However, numerous bacteria start to build up when you sleep without cleaning your mouth, especially after eating something. These are generally acidic. Thus, they cause enamel breakdown leading to tooth decay, gum diseases, and cavities.
Therefore, it is a MUST to create a proper nighttime routine for your kids to ensure good oral health.
Here’s how to do it!
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Brush Before Bed
As mentioned above, not brushing your teeth can cause bacteria buildup, which is not healthy for your teeth. So, develop the habit of brushing immediately after dinner or before going to sleep. Also, warn them about not eating anything after, especially if they love midnight snacks. If they eat something after brushing their teeth, ask them to brush again.
Use the Right Technique
Teaching your kids the right way to brush is essential for their dental care. The best way to clean teeth is back and forth gentle strokes. Clean the outer tooth first; afterward, the inner tooth and chewing surfaces last.
However, teaching this technique verbally can be a daunting task. That’s why you should take your kids to the family dentist as they can make the task much easier.
Tip: Remember that a family dentist should always be near your house. It ensures immediate treatment in an emergency. So, google- dentist near me and learn about the clinics nearby. Make sure they have an emergency facility and specialty in children’s dentistry.
Don’t Forget Flossing.
Many people believe that flossing is not necessary at night. However, that’s not true! On the other hand, flossing helps remove food particles and plaque (or tartar) from teeth. It also reduces the chance of bacteria feeding off the food particles.
Moreover, if your kids are prone to tartar or gum disease, flossing twice a day and visiting the dentist becomes essential.
Finish Off With a Mouthwash
If your kids are older than 6, you should add mouthwash to their nighttime routine. It will help strengthen teeth, treat bad breath, and detox your mouth. It also protects the gums from gingivitis and cavities.
However, you must consult your dentist before using any mouthwash- as not any OTC mouthwash could be beneficial.
Also, keep the mouthwash away from your kids if they are below 6. And, always supervise your kids when they are using mouthwash.
Pay Attention To Teeth Grinding
Lastly, many kids have the habit of unknowingly grinding their teeth. It can lead to teeth sensitivity, torn cheek tissue, or a painful jaw. So, you must pay attention to whether or not your child does this. If they do, you must talk to the dentist to create a mouthguard to protect their teeth.
Wrapping It Up!
These are some tips that you must teach your kids to keep their teeth and gum healthy. Also, make sure that you follow these tips to set an example for your kids. Plus, visit the dentist near you regularly for checkups and cleaning.
