Helping Kids Build Great Oral Hygiene Habits: Brushing and Flossing Tips

Teaching kids how to brush and floss properly is one of the most important steps toward ensuring a lifetime of healthy smiles. While developing these habits can take time and practice, your guidance and consistency will set the foundation for excellent oral health. Here’s what every parent should know about teaching kids to brush and floss, how often to do it, and when to schedule regular dental visits.

The Basics of Brushing

How Often: Kids should brush their teeth twice a day—once in the morning and again before bed.

How Long: Brushing should last 2 minutes each time. A fun way to time it is by using a sand timer, a favorite song, or a brushing app that encourages kids to keep going.

How to Brush Properly:

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush that’s the right size for your child’s age.
Add a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste for kids over 3 years old (a rice-sized smear for younger children).
Teach kids to:
- Angle the toothbrush at 45 degrees toward the gum line.
- Use gentle, circular motions to clean the front, back, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.
- Brush the tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.

The Basics of Flossing

When to Start: Begin flossing as soon as your child’s teeth touch. This is often around age 2-3.
How Often: Floss once a day, ideally at bedtime, to remove plaque and food particles between teeth.
How to Floss Properly:

Use a length of floss about 18 inches long. Wrap most of it around one finger and hold the rest with the other hand.
Slide the floss gently between the teeth, forming a “C” shape around each tooth.
Avoid snapping the floss, which can hurt gums.
If traditional floss is tricky, try floss picks or interdental brushes designed for kids.

Make Oral Hygiene Fun!

Building excitement around brushing and flossing can turn it from a chore into a fun daily routine.

Try these tips:

Choose Fun Supplies: Let your child pick out a toothbrush with their favorite character or a flavored toothpaste they enjoy.
Create a Reward Chart: Give them a sticker for each successful brushing and flossing session, with a small reward for a week of consistency.
Brush Together: Be a role model by brushing and flossing alongside your child.
Use Songs or Apps: Songs like “Brush Your Teeth” by Raffi or apps like “Brush DJ” can make the 2 minutes fly by. (Brush DJ app is totally free!)

The Brush DJ app is one way to turn brushing and flossing into a fun daily routine!

Regular Dental Visits

When to Start: Schedule your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday, or within six months of their first tooth erupting.
How Often: After the first visit, children should see the dentist every six months for cleanings and checkups.
Regular visits help:

Prevent cavities and detect any issues early.
Educate kids on the importance of oral health.
Build trust and comfort with the dentist.

Additional Tips for Healthy Smiles

Use Fluoride Wisely: Fluoride strengthens enamel and prevents cavities. Make sure your child drinks fluoridated water or consult your dentist about supplements if your water supply lacks fluoride.
Limit Sugary Snacks and Drinks: Encourage water over juice or soda and offer tooth-friendly snacks like cheese, fruits, and vegetables.
Monitor Brushing: Supervise your child’s brushing until about age 7 or until they can tie their shoes, which often signals the motor skills needed for proper technique.
Sealants for Extra Protection: Ask your dentist about dental sealants to protect your child’s molars from cavities.

Building a Lifetime of Good Habits

Teaching kids to brush and floss takes patience, but the effort pays off with healthier smiles and fewer dental issues. By making oral hygiene a priority at home and pairing it with regular dental visits, you’re setting your child up for long-term success. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s oral health, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to guide and support you every step of the way!

About the Author:

Alabama Pediatric Dental Association & Orthodontics is proud to have served their pediatric dental and orthodontic patients throughout the Tennessee Valley for over 50 years! Their offices are located in Huntsville, Madison, Hampton Cove, and Decatur, Alabama.

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