You have your school supply list written and your credit card at the ready. Back-to-school shopping will be a breeze this year thanks to your steady preparation — but wait. Prepping for school isn’t only about what goes in their backpacks, is it?
We’re of the opinion that it’s more than that… that it’s also about their oral habits and routines!
That’s why, if you’re wondering how much your children should be brushing with the new academic year on the horizon, we’re here to give you some friendly tips and reminders:
Two Plus Two Equals Healthy
You know the importance of brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day — and just because your children are young, that doesn’t mean the rule should change!
“The consensus recommendation is for people to brush their teeth for two minutes twice a day with a toothbrush that has soft bristles,” the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends for all ages.
That being said, depending on their age, your child might still need your help to reach that healthy standard.
“Young children like to do things by themselves,” the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services explains. “It’s good to let children brush their teeth while an adult watches. But children under age 7 or 8 cannot brush their teeth well yet. An adult needs to brush the child’s teeth too.”
Braces? Do More Than the Bare Minimum
“Two minutes, twice a day” is a good rule but, when it comes to orthodontic patients, that is truly only the minimum.
“Braces tend to accumulate plaque and small food particles, which in turn can lead to a myriad of dental problems,” according to HealthHub. “It is best to brush after every meal (even snacks) to make sure that your teeth and braces are free from food residue.”
Not only can food particles get stuck beneath the wires and between brackets but, if your child is being treated for misalignment and overcrowding, they’re even more likely to get food debris wedged tight between the teeth themselves.
In other words, brushing and flossing throughout the day is a must for these patients!
Reading the Next Chapter on Pediatric Dentistry
As they stuff their backpacks and reach for new school supplies, dental vocabulary is going to be far from your children’s minds.
Luckily, that’s where the Office of Setzer, Cochran, Soares, and Hubbard comes in!
Our team of board-certified pediatric dental professionals is ready to help you tackle back to school — and back to dental routines — with ease. After all, we don’t just offer a warm welcome and a beautiful smile; we offer years of expertise designed with your family’s comfort and health in mind.
To schedule your back-to-school dental appointment, reach out to our team today! We look forward to keeping their smiles bright for the new academic year.