Teaching kids about proper oral health care at an early age is a great investment that will eventually pay off. You can begin by being a good example for your kids; taking proper care of you own oral health sends a message that oral health is important. Plus, anything that makes brushing and flossing fun along with your kids and letting them pick their own toothbrush or toothpaste will encourage them to do proper oral care. But ensure to consider these tips when purchasing toothpaste and floss for your kids.

Check for Fluoride Content

Fluoride is a mineral that has been known to greatly lessen tooth decay. However, it is important that you let your kids spit out the toothpaste and tell them not to swallow it. Excessive fluoride in the body can lead to a disorder known as fluorosis. For kids who can totally spit out toothpaste, try to use fluoride-free toothpaste or place a small “pea” sized amount on their toothbrush.

Consider the Flavour

Although it has nothing to do with health issues, you may want to ensure that the toothpaste your kid is using doesn’t taste bad. A lot of kids find that traditional flavours such as mint to be too “spicy” and that they sometimes favour the more kid-friendly flavours available on the market.

Choose the Right Floss

Choosing the "right" floss for your kid is normally the one they are comfortable using. But, parents are shocked by the many kinds of dental floss available in the market. If you aren't sure of what to get for you kid, test out a few kinds and see what kind is effective for your kid. Some dental flosses have flavor such as bubblegum, mint, cinnamon but others don't have flavor at all. And if you still unsure on what to get, you can always ask recommendations from a pediatric dentist.

Flossing is a lifetime oral health care habit that kids should learn at an early age. Doing so will help create a solid oral health hygiene habit.

Be a Good Example

In most things, kids will look up to their parents. That is why it is important for you as a parent to be a good example and do oral health care with your kid.

Both parents must do all they can to be included in the oral health process with their kids as much as possible and show them that brushing and flossing are fun and essential.