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Brushing Teeth

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the most prevalent infectious disease in children is dental caries (also known as "cavities"), which can form in children as young as 14 or 15 months.

Thankfully, cavities are largely preventable, as long as you start taking care of your child's teeth when they first emerge.

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry agree that one of the most important parts of infant oral hygiene is a primary dental visit. You should schedule this short visit soon after your baby's first tooth erupts, and no later than age 1. Starting at age 2, a child should visit...

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Jul 10, 2007 at 9:42:39 PM

Use a timer to ensure proper time spent brushing

An egg timer or small sand timer will inspire your child to brush for the appropriate amount of time.  Kids are apt to want to quit after 30 or 45 seconds but dentists recommend about 2 minutes, if possible.

 

 

Caring for Your Toddler's Teeth

If your child is one of those, "I want to do it myself" kids, let them brush but also tell them you are going to also get in there and brush away any "sugar bugs" they missed while they brushed. To give them an idea of how long they should brush, have them recite the A,B,C song while brushing. This will keep them brushing longer than they usually might brush. Also, don?t forget to floss. Even at a young age, kids should learn to floss and make it part of their regular routine. Invest in flossing sticks that can be purchased at any drug store. They help get in between teeth easier and come in fun colors.

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