Using the right toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, etc., for you and your children is important for your overall oral health. Simply having a good dental routine is not enough if you’re using inferior products.
We’ll start with choosing the right toothpaste. This can be a confusing process especially when buying one for your child. Look for one that tastes good and contains fluoride. Some toothpastes are approved by the Canadian Dental Association (CDA). The CDA Seal of Approval means that the toothpaste’s manufacturer has proven that it is safe and effective. Some manufacturers choose not to seek approval. So toothpastes without the CDA seal may also be safe and may work well, but they simply have not been evaluated by the CDA.
The type of toothbrush you and your child use is very important. You don’t want to simply choose the cheapest one on the shelf. The wrong one can damage your gums and enamel. All children should use toothbrushes with soft nylon bristles. When your child is an infant, the toothbrush should be very small. As he or she grows, select a toothbrush that can fit easily in the mouth and brush one or two teeth at a time. Your child’s toothbrush should be able to reach all the teeth. Replace toothbrushes about every four months, or when they begin to look worn and frayed. If a toothbrush wears out before three or four months have passed, you or your child may be brushing too hard.
Using a mouthwash or rinse is an optional part of an oral routine, especially for kids. Mouthwash freshens breath, but does nothing to clean teeth. Many mouthwashes contain alcohol and are not appropriate for children younger than 6 years old. Fluoride mouth rinse is different than mouthwash; it coats teeth with fluoride, which helps to prevent cavities. You should check with your dentist to determine if your child needs to use a fluoride mouth rinse. Children who are at a high risk for cavities typically use it once or twice a day. You should supervise your child to make sure the rinse does not get swallowed.
Finally, floss. Many people ignore flossing but it is a critical aspect of good oral hygiene. Adults should floss everyday and you should start flossing your child’s teeth when they start to touch one another. Floss is available in many different sizes, coatings, flavors and forms. If you have trouble using the floss wrapped around your fingers, you can purchase floss holders in most drug stores. Some floss holders come in bright colors and are made to appeal to children.