Brushing and flossing are essential for good oral hygiene. Ideally, children must cultivate the habit of brushing from an early age under parental supervision. Parents should brush their kids' teeth twice a day until they can brush on their own. Later, parents can accompany the child to demonstrate proper brushing techniques.
As brushing is more crucial than using toothpaste for toddlers, it is ideal to use a soft-bristled toothbrush to protect tooth enamel and gums from abrasion. For instance, consider using Colgate Toothbrush for Kids, designed for kids between 0 and 2 years of age with baby teeth and who are learning to brush. With a small head that provides easy access into the child’s mouth and extra-soft bristles, it gently cleans the developing teeth and gums.
Brushing with toothpaste helps remove plaque and food debris from the teeth and gums. Some toothpastes are specially formulated with ingredients for whitening or combating oral issues, including cavities, enamel erosion, sensitive teeth, and gum disease. Children’s toothpaste differs from adult toothpaste, and is designed to protect the child's delicate tooth enamel and gums.
Ideally, you may use toothpaste on your child’s teeth from the age of two. In some cases, your dentist may suggest starting it earlier. The Indian Dental Association recommends using toothpaste amount equivalent to the size of a grain of rice for kids younger than two and a pea-sized amount until they are seven.
While picking toothpaste for kids, one may have to consider various factors, such as the ingredients, taste, and anti-cavity properties. Different aspects that you may look for in kids’ toothpaste include:
If you are looking for a toothpaste that combines these qualities, consider trying Colgate Motu Patlu Anticavity toothpaste for kids between 2 and 5 years old. It is formulated to prevent cavities in milk teeth and permanent teeth that erupt later. It is 50% less abrasive than adult toothpaste and gently scrubs off germs, preventing plaque, bad breath, and enamel problems. With a bubble fruit flavour and an attractive pack featuring your child’s favourite characters, it will make your child enjoy brushing.
It is worth knowing how teeth become susceptible to cavities and how regular brushing with toothpaste helps prevent it. Teeth naturally undergo demineralization and remineralization. Demineralization occurs when bacteria in the mouth combine with food debris to form plaque and produce acids that dissolve tooth enamel, eventually leading to tooth decay and cavities. Remineralization occurs when fluoride and other minerals, such as calcium in the saliva, repair the enamel.
When it comes to cavity prevention, using fluoride toothpaste is an ideal choice. Using the best toothpaste for cavities and removing plaque prevents tooth decay and strengthens teeth in children. In addition to choosing the best toothpaste for kids, proper brushing, ideally for two minutes twice daily, is also essential to make their teeth resistant to cavities.
Ideally, children are likely to have the coordination skills to brush independently by age six. Besides brushing with the best kids’ toothpaste, you can do a lot more to make your child’s teeth cavity-resistant. They include:
Proper dental care and hygiene are essential to help children have healthy teeth. Regular brushing habits from an early age and using the best toothpaste for kids are crucial in fighting cavities. You may look for child-friendly ingredients and fluoride content while choosing the best toothpaste for cavities. Ensure parental supervision for your child’s oral care routine and include a healthy diet, regular flossing, and dental check-ups to retain your child’s healthy smile.
This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
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