Oral Health in Reno: Instill Good Brushing Habits in Your Children

infant dental exam Reno Oral Health in Reno

New Reno parents may be surprised by the American Dental Association’s recommendations on infant oral care. Parents are advised to begin brushing their baby’s teeth as soon as the first teeth emerge. After all, brand-new teeth are just as vulnerable to tooth decay as older teeth.

Parents are encouraged to use a cloth and a smidgen of toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice to wipe each tooth. As more teeth come through, it’s even more crucial for the teeth to be brushed after each meal or, at least twice a day.

It is essential to select the proper toothbrush, in order to make brushing time as pleasant as possible. A soft-bristled brush is best with a small amount of toothpaste. Infant and toddler-sized toothbrushes with a small head of bristles are useful. Also, there are circle and triangular-shaped brushes that allow your toddler to walk around with their brush with less chance of injury in case of a fall.

If the toothpaste is causing an unpleasant struggle, brush without toothpaste. The goal is to remove food bits that will create bacteria followed by plaque and then cavities. When two teeth touch, it’s time to floss. Flossing is essential to make sure no food is lodged between the teeth. Proper flossing requires fine motor skills which most children don’t develop before age six or seven. Parents need to assist with flossing until they are sure their children can do it effectively for the sake of their own oral health in Reno.

Until the child is old enough to properly brush his or her teeth, they should receive adult supervision and guidance regarding oral health in Reno. Instilling the proper brushing and flossing methods will reap lifelong benefits. While it may seem that supervising them is time-consuming, remember that it’s creating a daily habit that will guard their oral health in Reno. Also, dental expenses related to poor oral hygiene will be avoided. Your child’s first dental visit should be within six months of the first tooth appearing and no later than their first birthday. It may seem early, but most parents bring their child to the pediatrician early. You can trust in your dentist to look out for potential problems and guide you about how to help your child preserve a healthy smile.

If you live in the Sparks area and don’t yet have a trusted family dentist, call The Reno Dentist at 775-323-0700 to schedule your child’s first dental appointment with Dr. Sykes. You can ask us about general dentistry, orthodontics, and gum disease treatment. By starting young, your child will become familiar with our dental practice and our friendly staff, ensuring that he or she never develops a fear of the dentist.

Contact The Reno Dentist:

775-323-0700

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

855 W Seventh St Ste 200
Reno, Nevada
89503