Hygiene

Dental hygiene should be taught from infancy. Newborn babies should have their gums massaged with moist gauze after each feeding to remove sugars and milk from the gums. When teeth emerge, a child’s toothbrush should be introduced with a very small amount of fluoride toothpaste. As a child’s coordination develops, it is important to teach good brushing techniques and how to reach the back teeth.

The first dental check-up is recommended at approximately one year of age or six months after the first tooth breaks through. The dentist will recommend the follow-up intervals, but it is typically one year.

Proper oral hygiene consists of two basic steps:

• Six-month professional cleanings

• Twice daily brushing, flossing, and antibacterial mouthwash

Effective brushing techniques include making small circles, covering all surfaces of the teeth including behind and around the back teeth, and brushing for approximately two minutes. Toothbrushes need to be the best size to fit comfortably into the mouth and easily reach the back teeth. Toothbrushes also need to be replaced every six months to prevent bacteria buildup.

Flossing is very important in removing food debris from between teeth and controlling plaque buildup. Flossing sticks have made flossing much easier and are widely available in most stores. The floss sticks provide a handle for better control and easier reach for the back teeth.

Antibacterial mouthwash is available in many different flavors and also without alcohol to prevent burning in the mouth during use.