When it comes to doing things they don’t want to do, many children (especially younger children) like to complain. Whether it’s cleaning their rooms, doing their homework, or brushing their teeth frequently, parents’ requests may sometimes be met with “Whyyyyyyyyyy???” and a sour look.
As oral health professionals, we can give you plenty of reasons to explain to your children just how vital regular brushing and flossing is. Spoiler Alert: It is very important for children to brush and floss their teeth frequently. Regular brushing and flossing play a crucial role in maintaining oral health, which is essential for several reasons.
Here’s a nice bullet point list you can use for reference:
- Preventing Tooth Decay and Cavities: Children are particularly prone to cavities and tooth decay due to their likelihood of consuming sugary snacks and drinks. Brushing teeth regularly with fluoride toothpaste helps remove plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that feeds on sugar and produces acids that damage tooth enamel.
- Gum Health: Regular brushing helps keep the gums healthy by removing plaque that can cause gum disease (gingivitis), which can lead to more severe dental issues if left untreated.
- Establishing Good Habits: Encouraging children to brush their teeth from a young age helps instill good oral hygiene habits that can last a lifetime. This helps prevent dental problems in adulthood.
- Preventing Bad Breath: Regular brushing helps remove food particles and bacteria that can cause bad breath, contributing to better overall oral hygiene.
- Saving Money: Preventative dental care, including regular brushing, can save on costly dental treatments for cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
- Overall Health: Poor oral health in children can lead to problems with eating, speaking, and learning. There’s also evidence suggesting a link between oral health and overall health, including conditions such as diabetes and heart disease, later in life.
Here at Cochran, Soares & Associates, we typically recommend brushing teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste: once in the morning and once before bed. Supervising young children’s brushing is important to ensure they’re doing it correctly and not swallowing toothpaste. If you have any other questions regarding best practices for oral health, please reach out, and we’ll be happy to schedule an appointment!