If your child has started developing cavities, you’re probably wondering what steps you can take to help prevent further tooth decay. You’ve come to the right place. Below, we discuss the importance of brushing kids’ teeth and provide recommendations for toothpaste and toothbrushes. We also offer tips for helping kids floss and explore additional preventative care recommendations.
The Importance of Brushing Kids’ Teeth
With as many tasks as you undoubtedly have on your daily to-do list, you’re probably looking to save time wherever you can, but brushing your children’s teeth should remain one of your top priorities. Keeping up with a regular brushing routine can:
- Prevent tooth decay from forming
- Minimize the risk of gum disease
- Help set children up for a healthy oral care routine later in life
Parents and caregivers should begin brushing their children’s teeth as soon as the first tooth erupts from the gums and continue assisting them until they can do it properly themselves (typically by age 7 or 8). As with adults, children should brush their teeth twice each day (in the morning and at night).
What’s the Best Kids’ Toothpaste for Cavities?
Kids have varying needs, so it’s important to follow any personalized recommendations you receive from your child’s dentist. With that said, here are some general rules for the type of toothpaste and amount to use at each age:
- 0 to 8 months (or first tooth)—You shouldn’t use any toothpaste until your child’s first tooth has erupted. In the meantime, you should use only water.
- 8 months (or first tooth) to 3 years—Once your child’s first tooth erupts, you can start brushing their teeth with fluoride toothpaste. The AAPD recommends using a tiny smear, about the size of a grain of rice, of fluoride toothpaste and continuing to do so until they turn 3 years of age. This is because young children typically have trouble spitting, so this small amount of fluoride is safe to swallow.
- 3 to 6 years—Once your child reaches the age of 3, you can increase the amount of standard fluoride toothpaste to a pea-sized amount.
- 6 years and older—After your child reaches the age of 6, you should be able to increase to a regular amount of fluoride toothpaste. Of course, it’s best to assist your child to ensure they are brushing and spitting correctly.
Fluoride is essential for all children, but especially for those who are prone to tooth decay. Don’t be afraid to buy a “fun” toothpaste—for example, one with a fruity flavor or in a funky color—since doing so could make your child more inclined to use it. However, ensure that it still contains the recommended amount of fluoride. You can also look for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance.
What’s the Best Toothbrush for Kids with Cavities?
While choosing the best toothpaste for kids with cavities is important, selecting the right toothbrush is equally important. When shopping for toothbrushes, choose one that’s small enough to fit into your child’s mouth comfortably (you may need to opt for a kid-specific toothbrush). You should also look for a toothbrush with soft bristles to enhance comfort and prevent enamel erosion and gum irritation. No matter what type of toothbrush you purchase, be sure to replace it every few months to maintain its effectiveness and minimize the spread of germs.
Tips for Helping Kids Floss
As with adults, children should floss once each day. You can start helping your child floss as soon as they have two teeth that touch. You may find it easier to use floss sticks as opposed to traditional dental floss.
Additional Preventative Care Recommendations
Brushing and flossing your children’s teeth are great ways to reduce their risk of developing cavities, but it’s also essential that they regularly attend dental checkups. Be sure to ask your child’s dentist for any personalized advice. With that said, the American Association of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children see a dentist by age 1, or when their first tooth erupts, and continue attending checkups every 6 months.
Your Top Choice for Pediatric Dentistry in the Greater Charlotte Area
As was noted above, in addition to brushing and flossing, one of the best things you can do to help your kids avoid cavities is to take them to regular dental checkups. Fortunately, if you’re in Charlotte, North Carolina, or the surrounding area, you can get the care your child needs at Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry.
We’ve been serving this community since 1992—during which time we’ve treated more than 250,000 children—and we use the latest tools, technologies, and treatment approaches to help ensure that our patients receive the best possible care. We also maintain affiliations with local hospitals to consult on especially challenging cases when needed. Plus, we participate with most insurance plans, communicate with carriers, and submit any necessary paperwork to make receiving care as easy and affordable as possible.
Contact Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry today to schedule your child’s next routine cleaning (or if you think they may already have a cavity, let us know, as we also offer fillings). Our friendly team can tell you more about our practice, answer your questions, and arrange a visit at a date and time that’s convenient for your family. We’ll also be happy to provide additional information about the best toothpaste for kids with cavities.
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