Brushing your teeth should be part of children's hygiene From a very young age, in this way, in addition to preventing oral problems, children acquire an essential habit. Contrary to what many people think, taking care of your baby teeth is just as important as taking care of your final teeth. Since, the milk teeth create a base on what will be the definitive teeth.
The teeth are for life, therefore, you have to take care of them with care and perseverance from the moment they appear in the baby's mouth around 6 months of age. Since the first teeth begin to appear, they are in contact with food and sugars present in them, which can damage the teeth in the long term. In addition, when teeth are coming in, cleaning also acts as a gum massage that is very soothing for the baby.
When and how to start oral hygiene for children
The first teeth begin to appear around 6 months, although this is something very relative. In some cases, they start around 4 months, and in others, they are delayed until about the first year. In any case, it is not something serious, since each child is completely different. What should be applied in any case, are some oral care basic that will gradually change, along with the growth of the child.
To clean those first baby teeth, just use a sterile gauze soaked in warm water. Placing the gauze over the finger and gently rubbing the baby's gums and teeth. In this way, in addition to cleaning the remains of milk or food from the teeth, the gums are stimulated and the exit of the other pieces is favored dental It is a very flattering massage, which also calms the baby and helps him with the discomfort caused by the teeth coming out.
When to teach children to brush their teeth
In the market there is a wide variety of toothbrushes for children, specialized by age and by the needs of children at each stage of their childhood. This allows us to choose a specific model in each case and that children also, are attracted to the idea of brushing their teeth themselves. Teaching children to brush their teeth from an early age will help them to acquire this essential hygiene habit.
There is no perfect age to teach children to brush their teeth, as it is never too early to start. If you get your children used to brushing their teeth, for them it will be something as normal as bathing every day or wash your hands frequently. However, around the age of two, what is known as symbolic play begins to develop.
This is nothing more than the imitation of the usual actions of the day to day, to play kitchen, to the professions, to be a hairdresser, they are phases of the game that develops during childhood, an essential game for the development of the child. Brushing your teeth can begin as a part of that symbolic play for children. To do this, you just have to place a toothbrush for your child next to yours and make sure he looks in the mirror as you brush your teeth yourself.
By imitation, your child will take his toothbrush and repeat the movements he sees in you. Use this as a learning tool, not only when it comes to oral hygiene, but in any other daily activity. It is also very important to offer them materials that motivate them, such as a toothbrush of your favorite cartoon character.
Types of toothbrushes
There are different types of children's toothbrushes, specially designed for children's teeth in their different stages of development. It is very important to choose a suitable brush in each case, these are the most appropriate:
- For the first milk teeth: A moistened gauze or a finger brush made of silicone, special for this function.
- The first toothbrush: From the first year or so, a small brush, with soft bristles and easy to handle. Up to two years nor it is recommended to use toothpaste.
- From the 3 years: Toothbrushes are still small, easy-to-use head. You can now use a specific toothpaste for children.
Teach your children to brushing your teeth as part of your daily hygiene routine, you will help them stay healthy and strong throughout their lives.