Oral Hygiene

How to care for children’s teeth

What are some tips for daily oral care?

The best way to remove decay-causing plaque is by brushing and cleaning between your teeth every day. Brushing removes plaque from the tooth surfaces.

Brush your teeth twice a day, with a soft-bristled brush. The size and shape of your brush should fit your mouth, allowing you to reach all areas easily. Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride, which helps protect your teeth from decay. When choosing any dental product, look for the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance, an important symbol of a dental product’s safety and effectiveness.

Cleaning between the teeth once a day with floss or interdental cleaners removes plaque from between the teeth, areas where the toothbrush can’t reach. It is essential in preventing periodontal (gum) disease.

By taking care of your teeth, eating a balanced diet and visiting your dentist regularly, you can have healthy teeth and an attractive smile your entire life. Follow these tips to keep your teeth and mouth clean.


 

How do I brush my teeth?

  • Proper tooth brushing technique. Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums.
  • Move the brush back and forth gently in short (tooth-wide) strokes.
  • Brush the outer tooth surfaces, the inner tooth surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
  • Use the “toe” of the brush to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, using a gentle up-and-down stroke.
  • Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.

 

How do I floss my teeth?

  • Break off about 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around one of your middle fingers. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the opposite hand. This finger will take up the floss as it becomes dirty. Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers.
  • Guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle rubbing motion. Never snap the floss into the gums.
  • When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C shape against one tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.
  • Hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up and down motions.
  • Repeat this method on the rest of your teeth.
  • Don’t forget the back side of your last tooth.

Watch the brushing and flossing animation to learn more.

People who have difficulty handling dental floss may prefer to use another kind of interdental cleaner. These aids include special brushes, picks or sticks. If you use interdental cleaners, ask your dentist about how to use them properly, to avoid injuring your gums.

Videos courtesy of Colgate.
Content courtesy of the American Dental Academy.

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“My children have both been dental patients of Dr. Cobb for several years now. When my daughter first started going to Dr. Cobb, she had been through a couple other dental experiences that were challenging and frightening for her. She was young, fearful and very apprehensive about the dentist. Unfortunately, she was in need of fairly significant dental work. When we found Dr. Cobb, we were pleased from the moment we entered his office. His office staff are all friendly and caring with exceptional customer service. Dr. Cobb was incredible in his approach with my very timid, fearful young child. He made her feel at ease and comfortable instantly. His kind and gentle approach was very reassuring to both my child and me, as a worried parent. She underwent a dental procedure which required general anethesia and it went very well. Dr. Cobb has always gone above and beyond to check in with us personally after even minor procedures. As my son began seeing Dr. Cobb, he has also had exceptional experiences each time he visits the office. We have also been very pleased with the phenomenal dental hygienists that have been involved with my children’s dental care. Overall, our impression of the clinic and Dr. Cobb is nothing less than AMAZING. Thank you for being dedicated, compassionate folks!!”

The Higgins Family October 20, 2014