Hear what your top Minneapolis Orthodontist has to say about the basics! When should my child start brushing their teeth? How much toothpaste should they use? Is “regular” toothpaste OK? SO MANY QUESTIONS to consider for your child when it comes to brushing. At Veil & Wild Orthodontics, Drs. Veil and Wild have come up with a list of basics to get your child brushing like a champ. If you need more guidance, feel free to stop by any of our offices (Eden Prairie, Bloomington, Prior Lake, Shakopee and Minneapolis) for extra support.  

First things first: why is it important for a child to start brushing at a young age? The minute the first tooth emerges, it’s important to practice good dental hygiene and clean not only the tooth but the whole mouth. What’s more? Brushing from the beginning gets your child comfortable with the feeling of a toothbrush and starts the important habit of morning and evening cleaning.

TOOTHPASTE: What to use & how much 

When it comes to toothpaste, parents are often concerned about using fluoride toothpaste for babies. However, it’s recommended to use a fluoride toothpaste as the child gets their first tooth. Fluoride, in the correct dose, is absolutely safe for babies. It’s a natural mineral that strengthens the teeth, protects the enamel from the cavity-causing acids found in plaque and helps kills some of the bad bacteria in the mouth. While there is fluoride-free toothpaste for babies that’s marketed towards really little ones, the American Dental Association recommends using a regular fluoride toothpaste for kids in a very small amount.

How much toothpaste does Veil & Wild Minneapolis Orthodontist suggest my child should use? For ages 0-3, a rice-sized smear is perfect. For children 3+, increase to a pea-sized amount. Less is more when it comes to toothpaste as children haven’t yet mastered spitting after brushing. 

HOW TO HELP

Like most activities with your child, it’s important to assist with brushing. For children ages 0-3, parents should do most (if not all) of the brushing so they can get used to the feel of the toothbrush. After age 3, parents can start letting them try brushing for themselves. However, follow up with parent-aided brushing to ensure all surfaces are being reached and until confident your child has the dexterity to reach all surfaces. 

Another important aspect of brushing our Minneapolis Orthodontist office suggests is the rinse & spit process! For babies, it’s important to keep toothpaste minimal (remember the rice-sized amount?) as swallowing will occur. When old enough, start teaching your child how to rinse and spit following brushing.

MYOFUNCTIONAL ORTHODONTICS 

Even if your child isn’t quite ready for braces or Invisalign, our team at Veil & Wild Orthodontics is here to support your dental needs. Did you know Veil & Wild Orthodontics Minneapolis Orthodontist offer myofunctional orthodontics? These oral developmental issues in children are the primary cause of sleep problems and treatment addresses poor muscular function, improper oral posture and growth, and mouth breathing. Regular dentist visits can alert you to any issues your child could be experiencing. From there, we take over and our doctors will provide screening and the appropriate intervention for your child.

Have questions? Submit a form HERE or give us a call at (952) 903-9484