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Cavity Prevention Teeth Cleaning Tips

April 23, 2022

Nothing is more heartwarming than seeing your little one’s smile. Children start with perfect teeth; now, it’s up to you to keep them as perfect as the day they first came in. Here are some great teeth cleaning tips to help your kids get started with a lifetime of good oral hygiene. For cavity prevention, the earlier, the better!

When the first tooth appears, it’s time to begin cleaning baby’s teeth. At this stage, a clean damp washcloth or a gauze pad works well to gently wipe the teeth and the front of the tongue after baby eats and at bedtime. This seemingly simple act engrains the habit of good oral health care.

Once your little one has reached the age of twelve months, it’s time to introduce the toothbrush. Get a small, soft-bristled toothbrush designed for an infant. This starter toothbrush is designed to get baby used to the feeling of the bristles and the motions of brushing teeth.

Your child is ready for a toothbrush designed for a young child by two years old. The handle is typically larger, making it easier for little hands to hold. Taking your child to pick out their first toothbrush can get them excited about brushing their teeth. There are many different characters available so that they can pick out one special to them. The same holds for toothpaste. Have them pick a flavor they like, so they look forward to brushing. Use a small amount of toothpaste made specifically for young children; fluoride and fluoride-free options are available. Speak with your pediatric dentist to see which is more appropriate for your child.

It can be helpful to brush your teeth when your child brushes theirs so that they can mimic you. Be sure to show them to spit out the toothpaste; if you use just a smear on their brush, it isn’t a huge deal if they swallow some, but it is better if they do not. Treat toothpaste as you would a medication and keep it out of reach of children.

Make brushing teeth a fun experience. Allow for plenty of time, so there isn’t a rush. Have your child brush their teeth while looking in the mirror with you close by. While it is important to make brushing teeth enjoyable, it should always be supervised. Never let children play with a toothbrush; serious injuries have resulted from a toothbrush in their mouth.

A reward chart is a great way to motivate older kids to brush their teeth. Gold stars earned for brushing and flossing teeth can go toward a treat such as ten more minutes of a favorite video game or movie. To make tooth brushing time festive, play a favorite song; it can even help with timing- brush until the song is over!

Look for age-appropriate books about brushing teeth and going to see the dentist. Books are an excellent way to introduce new experiences; children often relate to the characters and their experiences. Going to the dentist for the first time can be an exciting adventure. Set the stage by talking about it, and if possible, show your child pictures of the office and the dentist they will be visiting. Setting a positive tone will ensure your child has the best visit possible.

At Dental Arts Rego Park, we care about your child’s oral health as much as you do. Call us today to schedule an appointment with our pediatric dentist; let’s keep those baby teeth happy!

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Everyone Loves Dental Arts Rego Park

Alice Cooperol

Dr. Zina and her staff are amazing. I felt very informed about the procedure before hand. They even gave me tips to heal and recover as quickly and comfortably as possible. Overall, a great experience and very happy I chose this practice for my wisdom teeth removal.

Gladys James

It was wonderful being able to remove my teeth and get my new set on the same day. I didn’t have to go to work with no teeth. The staff was wonderful and told me what to expect every step of the way. The staff was awesome very accommodating, they made sure that I was comfortable.

Mae Long

Dr. Zina made me feel so comfortable that I now bring my entire family to see her. She is friendly and sweet and has a very welcoming personality. She has a very calm persona and makes you feel very comfortable. My 9 year old now looks forward to going to the dentist. Thank you Dr Gotlieb for the wonderful care you took with my family and I.

Scott Mcdaniel

Dr. Zina is the best dentist ever!! She is a perfectionist, it’s amazing! Had teeth pulled by him, root canals done, and now working on getting implants and NEVER had an issues after all was done. She is a very nice guy and so down to earth, very personable. she even has his own art work around the office and the space is beautiful!!!!! Very talented and knowledgeable!!!! Really glad I have him as my family’s dentist.

Andrea Gordon

I have been blessed to have the acquaintance of the best dentist I have had these past years. Dr. Zina is the consummate professional and always at the top of his profession with regard to new technology. The Doctor’s staff not only supports him in every way but is the key to patient support. keeps me up to date and is always accommodating - thank you so very much!

Faye Bates

This office is wonderful- very clean facility with friendly and courteous staff. Dr. Zina Gotlieb is so nice and personable, and she spent more time counseling and answering questions than I have experienced at any other dental office. And she did not try to push any unnecessary treatments. I highly recommend this practice!

Annie Hawkins

Great experience here with the staff and work quality. Came here for a borderline emergency wisdom tooth removal which was handled quickly and with amazing care they are now my main dental office. Dr. Zina is an asset as shes always there to great you with a smile and reminding my forgetful self about my upcoming appointments.