Top 6 Brushing Mistakes Kids Make (And How to Fix Them)
Healthy oral hygiene behaviors require guidance and repetition before they become second nature. When fostering healthy dental habits at home, expect that your children won’t get everything right the first time. The key is to identify the most common mistakes kids make and gently correct them. Addressing these missteps can help your child avoid unexplained toothaches later that may require serious intervention.
With your loving guidance and support from our Cincinnati team of providers at Beckham Square Family Dental, your children learn proper brushing habits that will last into adulthood. Here are the six most common mistakes children make when brushing their teeth.
1. Incorrect Technique
Kids don’t automatically know the proper brushing technique. It’s one of the many skills they’ll learn. Encourage them to practice by having them hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and move it in circular motions.
Another technical aspect that many children overlook is the duration of brushing. It’s typical for kids to rush through their brushing, especially if they find it a chore. However, as soon as they learn to brush, it’s essential to stick to the two-minute rule. Use a colorful timer or play a song that helps them keep track of those crucial two minutes.
2. Brushing Too Hard
Baby teeth typically have strong enamel, but vigorous brushing can wear it down. It’s easy for a child to get carried away and brush too hard, especially if Mom or Dad finds a way to make nighttime brushing fun. But remind them that it doesn’t take much force to get a thorough cleaning.
You can avoid this common mistake by inspecting your child’s brush periodically. If the bristles are flattened or frayed far sooner than it’s time to change the brush, they’re likely using too much pressure. You can buy an electric brush with a two-minute timer and a sensor that lets them know when they’re brushing too forcefully.
3. Not Flossing Regularly
Children should learn early on that brushing and flossing go hand in hand. Because baby teeth can be very close together, there’s an increased risk for cavities, gum disease, and other problems. Your child may find it easier to use single-use disposable flossers before they’re ready to handle traditional string floss.
4. Storing the Toothbrush Incorrectly
Children and adults alike may not think much about storing a toothbrush properly. However, harmful bacteria can grow on the bristles, particularly when the product is stored in a damp environment. Have your child choose a special cup in which they can store their brush, allowing it to dry. Keep it in the medicine cabinet to prevent exposure to airborne bacteria.
5. Brushing Too Soon After Meals
If your child wants to head to the bathroom to brush right after a meal, you could say that’s a nice problem to have. Instead, encourage your child to wait at least 20 minutes or closer to bedtime to allow saliva to wash away the bacteria and food particles. Additionally, brushing within 30 minutes of consuming juice with citric acid can lead to unnecessary wear on the enamel.
6. Forgetting to Rinse After Brushing
Spitting out the toothpaste after brushing isn’t enough to remove that pesky plaque. Remind your child to use their special cup, which they use to store their brush, to rinse their mouth to remove any excess food or particles.
Smart Brushing with Help from Your Cincinnati Dental Experts
Proper brushing techniques can protect your child’s teeth between dental exams and professional cleanings at your Cincinnati dentist’s office. At Beckham Square Family Dental, we strive to support healthy habits for the whole family. You can rely on us for expert tips and guidance on promoting proper brushing techniques at home. Feel free to ask us for help at your next scheduled appointment.