Q: How should I teach my children to brush her teeth? When should I allow her to brush on her own?
A: Until children are 6 to 8 years old, you need to help them brush. And once their teeth are touching each other, help children floss once a day. Your Pharmacist at your local Good Neighbor Pharmacy can help you find dental supplies that work best for children, such as children-sized toothbrushes.
Experts suggest brushing kids’ teeth this way:
1. Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.
2. Hold the toothbrush at an angle against the child’s gums. Gently move the brush in short, back-and-forth strokes.
3. Brush the outside, inside and chewing surface of the teeth. Brush for two minutes.
4. Have your child spit out the toothpaste and rinse well.
5. Gently floss between your child’s teeth. Rub floss up and down against the sides of each tooth.
Q: My kids love candy and other treats. Which sweets are worst for their teeth, and what are some healthier alternatives?
A: These foods increase the risk for tooth decay:
• Sticky and chewy snacks. Taffy, gummy bears, raisins and other dried fruits are a common cause of decay. That’s because they can easily get stuck between teeth and aren’t likely to be cleared away by saliva.
• Sour candies. The high acid levels contained in these sweets break down tooth enamel, making it easier for decay to take hold.
These treats are less likely to damage kids’ teeth:
• Sugar-free candies and lollipops. These candies don’t contain decay-causing sugar. They also help prevent dry mouth, which increases the risk for cavities because there’s less saliva to cleanse the teeth.
• Sugar-free gum. This kind of gum can help prevent cavities by removing food bits caught between teeth and by increasing saliva, which neutralizes acids.
Q: Besides brushing and flossing regularly, what are other tips I can teach my children to help prevent dental problems?
A: A quarter of America's 2-to 5-year olds and half the 12- to 15- year olds have tooth decay, so it's important to take steps to help protect teeth. Teaching your child these strategies may help.
• Rinse your mouth with water after eating or drinking to help remove sugar and acid.
• Use a straw with sugary drinks to keep the beverage away from teeth.
• Drink fluoridated water. Studies show it reduces cavities.
Ask your Good Neighbor Pharmacy pharmacist for other dental health tips and product recommendations.
Source: Good Neighbor Pharmacy Connection, February 2013
Share with Friend
