Despite being the shortest month of the year, a lot is going on in February! It’s the home of Valentine’s Day, Black History Month, and it’s also Children’s Dental Health Month. In this spirit, the team at Shirck Orthodontics is going to share 3 essential tips that parents and children with braces need to follow in order to keep their teeth healthy and their treatment on track.
Brush After Every Meal
The commonly quoted recommendation of the American Dental Association is that people should brush their teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each, but for children with braces, this needs to be modified to after every meal and snack. Metal braces are notorious for trapping food particles and plaque against the teeth, which can drastically increase a child’s risk of cavities. By brushing more frequently throughout the day, a child can stop decay before it ever begins.
Have a To-Go Dental Kit
Parents with small children know that when they get hungry, you need to feed them fast, otherwise their behavior and mood will go completely out the window. Often, this means a child needs a snack while away from home, far away from their toothbrush and floss. That’s why it’s wise for parents to invest in a to-go dental kit for their child, which should include a travel toothbrush, floss, and maybe mouthwash. This can all fit in a container that can be easily held in a purse, pocket, or backpack, ensuring a child is able to clean their mouth wherever they might be.
Use Special Flossers
Getting a child to floss consistently in the first place is a challenge, but the task becomes almost impossible when braces are a factor. Regular flossing simply doesn’t work, but fortunately, there are a number of special flossing tools available on the market that are designed to work around the wires and brackets, enabling children to reach those trouble spots that they can’t clean with their brush. Ask your child’s orthodontist which one might be best for them depending on their age, and it should be readily available either at your local pharmacy or online.
These tips are easy to implement and can make a BIG difference in your child’s orthodontic experience, plus as a parent, they’ll give you one less thing to worry about, as they’ll ensure cavities won’t throw off their treatment. This February, help your child show their teeth a little love by taking their oral hygiene to the next level!
About the Author
Dr. Jeffrey Shirck is a board-certified orthodontist who has helped countless children in the Columbus area achieve the smiles of their dreams with braces. He goes out of his way to work with parents and his little patients to ensure they have all the tools and knowledge they need to be successful. If you have questions about how to help your child with braces enjoy the smoothest experience possible, don’t hesitate to contact Shirck Orthodontics today.