Words of Wisdom No.9: “Brush Your Teeth When You First Get Out of Bed and Before You Get Back In at Night”
When it comes to maintaining a healthy mouth and a beautiful smile, one of the easiest ways to maintain both is by following an effective tooth brushing routine. You probably get tired of telling your kids to go brush their teeth, but the truth is it really does make a difference. Next time, you can tell them that the Fredericksburg Ortho said so.
Why Is Brushing So Important?
For obvious reasons, fresher breath for one, brushing is important. But, why do we really need to brush regularly? A regular tooth brushing routine not only freshens breath but it also removes plaque buildup and prevents cavities.
The mouth is a dark, moist area, so it is the perfect place for bacteria to grow. The presence of bacteria means that there’s a potential for cavities including gingivitis and bad breath.
When Do Kids Need to Brush?
While Virginia orthodontics specialists suggest brushing after each meal, it is particularly important to brush upon waking in the morning and before heading to bed at night. This practice of morning and nighttime brushing helps eliminate that underlying bacterial issue that causes additional oral health concerns. Kids should brush right after they get out of bed and just before they head to bed at night to remove any built-up of plaque and bacteria.
What Are the Other Components of a Healthy Tooth Brushing Routine?
In addition to regular brushing, kids also need to be mindful of how they brush. To be thorough, kids need to brush for at least 1 to 2 minutes and should use a soft-bristled brush. As far as toothpaste goes, kids should use a mild paste with added fluoride for maximum benefits.
For other suggestions on oral hygiene and helping your child maintain a healthy mouth, visit Beercroft Orthodontics for an appointment with an established Fredericksburg Ortho and a leader in Virginia orthodontics.
Beecroft Orthodontics, 10472 Georgetown Dr. Fredericksburg, Virginia
Phone: 540-898-2200
Components of a Healthy Tooth Brushing Routine