Modern Australian
Men's Weekly

.

Teaching Kids to Brush Their Teeth and Floss Correctly



It’s scary to think that children aged as young as 7 have fillings or missing teeth. They haven’t even managed to take care of their baby teeth. That doesn’t inspire much hope for their adult teeth, and these are supposed to last them a lifetime.

Regular Checkups

For most parents, it is difficult to supervise your child every time they do their teeth, especially as they start to get older. That’s why it’s important to contact a reputable dentist, such as this dentist neutral bay, and book an appointment every 6 months.

The dentist will spot any issues and can help you to deal with them before they become a much bigger issue.

Brush Twice Per Day

Children, (and adults), need to brush at least twice a day. When you teach your child to brush it is important they don’t use too much pressure. Simply holding the brush between the forefinger and thumb will limit the pressure being applied.

Too much pressure equates to damaged gums, increasing the risk of infection. It can also damage the hard enamel coating on teeth.

As well as getting the pressure right it’s important to use a small circular motion. This disturbs more plaque and bacteria than straight brushing and is less likely to damage the sensitive surfaces inside your child’s mouth.

Don’t forget, everyone needs to brush for at least 2 minutes every time they brush.

Supervise Them

It’s not always easy to supervise your child as they brush their teeth but it is an important step if you want to protect their teeth. You can even assist them with brushing their teeth until they’re 7 or 8 years old. This will help them to create a good technique.

Change Their Brush

It’s a good idea to replace their toothbrush every 3 months. This is also a good time to check the toothbrush. It should look a little worn. However, if the bristles are flattened then they are using too much pressure and you need to help them reduce pressure while brushing.

Start Flossing

It can be difficult to get the hang of flossing when you start as an adult. However, if you start young it’s simply something you do. As soon as your child has two teeth next to each other show them how to floss and make sure they do it every day.

It’s a good idea to monitor their flossing technique until they are 10.

Diet

Don’t forget that anything high in sugar is going to contribute to tooth decay. Sugar feeds the bacteria in your mouth which creates acid as a byproduct. This acid attacks the enamel on your teeth and, once that hard coating is gone, it’s relatively simple for these acids to eat through the softer inner layer and create cavities.

Monitoring your child to ensure they are brushing their teeth and they are doing it properly will help them in the future. But, it must work alongside regular dental visits, your child’s health is in your hands.

Health Features

The Modern Role of a Dentist in Oral and Overall Health

When most people think of a dentist, they imagine routine check-ups, cleanings, or cavity fillings. While these remain vital aspects of dental care, the role of a dentist has expanded...

Social Media: Is It Increasing Rates of Anxiety and Depression?

In today’s connected world, social media has become an integral part of daily life. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook offer opportunities to share experiences, keep in touch with loved...

Navigating Disability Services in Perth: Your Questions Answered

Understanding the landscape of disability support can feel overwhelming, especially when you're just starting out. If you’re looking for support and guidance, knowing where to turn is the first step...

How Veneers and Dental Implants Work Together for Full Smile Restoration

Modern dentistry has strong instruments that can produce life-changing outcomes when it comes to repairing a smile that has been impacted by tooth loss, injury, or cosmetic difficulties. Veneers and...

TPD Claims & Super: What Does It All Mean?

Many Australians hear the term "TPD" in relation to their superannuation and feel completely lost. If you're scratching your head, wondering what it means or whether you might have this...

Psychologists Explore Gestalt Vs Schema Therapy for PTSD Treatment

Recent research has revealed that in 2022, 1 in 9 Australians experienced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). For some, this can significantly impact their quality of life.  To better support clients with...

Why Choosing Local Lawyers in Brisbane Can Make All the Difference

When it comes to legal matters, your choice of representation can influence both the outcome and overall experience. Working with local lawyers in B...

Restoring Volume and Style with Human Hair Toppers for Women

Hair plays a significant role in confidence and self-expression, but thinning hair and hair loss can affect women at any stage of life. While wigs p...

Top Qualities of a Trusted Local Aircon Installer

Choosing the right air conditioning installer can make a big difference to your comfort, safety, and long-term energy costs. A properly installed syst...

Everything You Should Know About Double Chin Treatment

A double chin, medically known as submental fat, is a common concern that affects people of all ages and body types. Thanks to modern cosmetic proce...

The Modern Role of a Dentist in Oral and Overall Health

When most people think of a dentist, they imagine routine check-ups, cleanings, or cavity fillings. While these remain vital aspects of dental care...

Reliable Solutions for Gate Repairs and Emergency Fixes in Melbourne

Gates are more than just entry points to a property. They are essential for security, privacy, and convenience in both residential and commercial se...

Driving Innovation and Reliability with a Professional Engineering Company Melbourne

Engineering is at the core of modern infrastructure, manufacturing, and construction. From the tallest skyscrapers to the most advanced energy syste...

Telematics: Driving Business Efficiency

Telematics, the clever combination of telecommunications and information technology, has evolved from simple vehicle tracking to become an indispens...

5 Signs Your Pool Filter Needs Professional Cleaning

Is your pool water looking cloudy, your pump working overtime, or the jets losing pressure?  These are common warning signs that your pool filter mi...

Social Media: Is It Increasing Rates of Anxiety and Depression?

In today’s connected world, social media has become an integral part of daily life. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook offer opportuni...

Preventive Maintenance Tips for Hydraulic Equipment

Hydraulic equipment plays a crucial role in industries ranging from construction and mining to agriculture and manufacturing. Whether it’s powerin...

Choosing the Right LiDAR System for Your Project

When planning a project that relies on accurate spatial data, selecting the right LiDAR system is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make. ...

The History of Craft Beer: From Monasteries to Modern Breweries

Craft beer has a rich and fascinating history that stretches back centuries. What we enjoy today in trendy taprooms and bustling breweries is the re...

How Natural Pearls Shaped Trade Routes and Global Economies

Throughout history, natural pearls—those rare, untamed treasures formed by nature itself—have exerted a powerful influence on trade networks, po...

How To Choose The Right Insulation For Your Space

Selecting the appropriate insulation for your home or building is a critical decision that affects comfort, energy efficiency, and present and future ...

7 Best Things to Do in Beaufort, Victoria

Beaufort is a charming small town in Victoria’s Goldfields, full of history, natural beauty, and warm, welcoming locals. Whether you’re passing th...

What to Expect During Divorce Mediation & Settlement

Divorce can be a difficult and emotionally draining process, but mediation and settlement often provide a constructive path forward. Instead of goin...

Navigating Disability Services in Perth: Your Questions Answered

Understanding the landscape of disability support can feel overwhelming, especially when you're just starting out. If you’re looking for support a...