How to Brush Your Teeth

While regular dental visits are an important part of oral health care, healthy dental habits should start at home. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day helps prevent buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, which can lead to cavities, oral infections, gum disease and tooth decay. Teaching children the correct way to brush their at a young age will set them up to continue taking care of their smiles for life.

Steps for Brushing Teeth Properly:

• Place a pea-sized amount of toothpaste (preferably fluoridated) onto your child’s toothbrush. Choose a toothbrush with soft or extra-soft bristles to avoid irritating the gums.
• * A toddler toothpaste that is fluoride-free, is recommended until age of 2, or until your child can adequately spit-out on their own. This recommendation will be discussed at your child's first visit with us.
• Tilt the brush at a 45° angle against the gum line and brush in a small circular motion throughout the entire mouth. Brushing in this motion allows you to clean the teeth as well as the gum line.
• Gently brush the outside, inside and chewing surfaces of each tooth.
• Gently brush the tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.
• Rinse mouth with water or fluoridated mouthwash.
• * Fluoridated mouthwash is not advised for children under the age of 6, or until your child can adequately spit-out on their own. This recommendation will be discussed at your child's first dental visit with us.

Get your child into the habit of brushing his/her teeth twice a day and after every meal to maintain clean, healthy teeth between visits to the dentist.