Your child's dental home care plays an important role in achieving a healthy smile.  Home care starts by eating balanced meals and healthy snacks (see our healthy snack guide), staying active so snacking is reduced,   correctly using the various dental aids that help control plaque and bacteria that cause dental disease.

Tooth brushing – Children should brush at least twice a day (after breakfast and the last thing done before bedtime) with an ADA approved soft bristle brush and toothpaste.  Parents should help children brush at least until the age of 7.  Have your child brush first, then help them finish up.  Young children do not have the dexterity to reach all areas.

1. Place the brush at a 45 degree angle to the gums and gently brush using a small, circular motion, ensuring that the bristles are always felt on the gums.
2. Brush the outer, inner, and biting surfaces of each tooth.
3. Use the tip of the brush to clean the inside of the front teeth.
4. Brush the tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.

Electric toothbrushes are also recommended.  They are easy to use and can remove plaque efficiently.  Simply place the bristles of the electric brush on the gums and teeth and allow the brush to do its job, several teeth at a time.

Flossing – Flossing removes plaque between the teeth where a toothbrush can't reach.  Flossing should begin when any two teeth touch.  A parent should floss their children's teeth until he or she can do it alone.  Use about 18 inches of floss, winding most of it around the middle fingers of both hands.  Hold the floss lightly between the thumbs and forefingers.  Use a gental, back-and-forth motion to guide the floss between the teeth.  Curve the floss into a C-shape and slide it into the space between the gum and tooth until you feel resistance.  Gently scrape the floss against the side of the tooth.  Repeat this procedure on each tooth.  Don't forget the backs of the last four teeth.