When we brush and floss our teeth, we remove food particles to help lower the risk of issues like tooth decay or gingivitis. Even children need to care for their smiles, even as early as age one. In today’s blog, your Round Rock, TX, dentist will talk about better brushing and flossing habits, and the dangers of plaque and tartar buildup on little smiles.

The Onset of Plaque and Tartar

Over time, no matter our age, the foods and drinks we course will leave behind particles on and between the teeth, especially sugary and starchy ones, which cling to the teeth. Lack of proper brushing and flossing leaves these behind for bacteria, and the result is plaque and tartar. The bacterial buildup could weaken enamel, causing demineralization that exposes inner dentin to bacteria and allows cavities to form. A cavity, unless treated with a filling, could then mean an infection and the risk of a prematurely lost tooth. However, routine care at home, combined with visits every six months for a cleaning, could control plaque and help prevent cavities!

Brushing Little Smiles

As babies, you will need to clean the teeth with a cloth or possibly a small soft brush that fits over your finger. Toddlers may need assistant with an age-appropriate brush, and you may need to keep an eye on your older toddlers and kids to make sure they’re taking time to clean their teeth. Once the teeth have all erupted, brushing should take about two minutes and involve the use of a rice-sized bit of fluoride toothpaste. They should clean or have their teeth cleaned in the morning and then again before bed. You may consider finding fun apps, podcasts, or songs to time them and guide them through the process. You can use electric or manual, just as long as your kids are using them to clean their teeth!

Flossing with Picks and Tape

As soon as teeth begin to sit side-by-side in the smile, treatment is necessary to remove the food particles stuck between them, or lodged along the gum line. Since brushing alone cannot do this, flossing up and down the sides of every tooth is necessary. For younger kids, a floss pick may be easier to use, and as they age floss tape should be used. We could also offer fluoride treatments and dental sealants to help protect the smile, especially the teeth that are hard to reach for your little ones.

Pediatric Dentistry of Round Rock Talks About Preventive Dentistry

Pediatric Dentistry of Round Rock wants to help your children enjoy better oral health with daily brushing and flossing. If you want to learn more about keeping little smiles strong and whole, then start by contacting the Pediatric Dentistry of Round Rock in Round Rock, TX at 512-733-5311.