It’s that time of the year again, it’s back to school and trying to get back into normal routines again can be exhausting. During the holiday break routines do tend to go out of the window; late nights and lazy mornings can often disrupt how and when we do things – including tooth brushing.
A regular teeth cleaning routine is essential for good dental health, children should be brushing their teeth twice a day for at least two minutes: once before bedtime and at least one other time during the day. (British Dental Association).
Brushing before or after breakfast?
Brushing too soon after eating can damage the enamel whilst your mouth is still acidic. Ideally brush 30-60 minutes following breakfast, if this isn’t possible due to the morning rush it is better to brush before breakfast and to take a drink of water after breakfast to wash away the acids. Remember fruit juices are not only acidic but a typical glass or orange or apple juice contains approximately 21g of sugar! Water or milk are the best breakfast drink choice.
Getting back into the routine.
Adapting to the normal school routine is going to help, morning and bedtime routines will be more predictable. Fun things to help with tooth brushing include apps or simple brush charts.
How to help children brush their teeth properly.
Guide your child’s hand so they can feel the correct movement.
Use a mirror to help your child see where to brush.
Make brushing fun using an egg timer or an app.
Top 5 brushing apps:
- Aquafresh Brush Time
- Disney Magic Timer by Oral B
- Jordan Brush Time for Kids
- Brush DJ
- Denny Timer
For further information and help with tooth brushing make an appointment to see one of our dental hygienists here at Arden House.
