It is important to help your child understand the importance of a consistent oral care routine. If a routine is established early on in their lives, it will be second nature for them for years to come. It isn’t always fun going to visit the dentist, but you and your child can have a much better time if you follow these easy tips!
Before your child even has teeth, you can get them in the habit of brushing. Silicone sleeves go over your finger that simulates brushing. Your child is already familiar with this since they use a bottle, but this reinforces the notion that brushing is a good thing. Scrubbing their gums will get them prepared for using a regular toothbrush when the time comes.
Next, it is important to set a time limit on brushing. Most adults are encouraged to brush for two to three minutes, so a song fits perfectly for children’s brushing. When your child gets old enough, you can have them select their favorite song and have them brush their teeth with it. Before then, choose something soothing that puts your child at ease while you get them ready for a lifetime of brushing.
When selecting a brush for your child, make sure to get an appropriately sized toothbrush. You don’t want to buy an adult toothbrush for your two-year-old. It will not work nearly as well as a children’s toothbrush. The sizing will make a huge difference in the comfort level of your child.
Brushing isn’t the only activity that will help take care of a child’s teeth. Flossing is important and is just as important as brushing. A toothbrush cannot get in between your teeth as floss can, and incorporating this into your child’s routine early on is critical. As soon as your child’s teeth begin to appear and touch one another, they need to start flossing. Flossing prevents cavities and other dental problems.
By starting early, you are reinforcing the idea that oral care is a fun and necessary activity to do each and every day. When your children are older, they will be thankful for the healthy habits you have taught them. If you have any questions regarding your child’s oral care routine, contact Los Alamitos Dental Care today!
John Wallace, DDS
Dr. John Wallace, a founding partner of Los Alamitos Dental Care, has over 25 years of experience in restorative dentistry. A
UCLA School of Dentistry honors graduate, he is highly skilled in Invisalign treatment. He is recognized as a leading expert in managing airway disorders such as snoring and sleep apnea. Dr. Wallace's extensive experience and commitment to patient care have made him a trusted figure in the community, known for his authoritative approach and dedication to improving patients' oral health.
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Michael Zell, DDS
Dr. Michael Zell has been a key Los Alamitos Dental Care member since 1998, with a strong focus on ethical and high-quality patient care. He holds a degree in biology from
UC Irvine and graduated from
UCLA School of Dentistry, followed by advanced training in General Dentistry. Dr. Zell is primarily known for his work with children and his ability to build trust with adult patients. His experience and commitment to ethical practice solidify his reputation as a trustworthy and authoritative dental professional.
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Josh Winer, DDS
Since joining Los Alamitos Dental Care in 2000,
Dr. Josh Winer has built a reputation for his expertise in repairing broken teeth and implant restoration. A
USC School of Dentistry graduate, Dr. Winer is known for his patient-centered approach and dedication to providing high-quality dental care. His extensive experience and thorough understanding of a wide range of dental procedures make him a trusted and authoritative figure in dentistry.
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Kerry Hahn, DDS
Dr. Kerry Hahn is a highly respected dentist with a distinguished academic background, including being the valedictorian of his class at
UCLA School of Dentistry. He completed additional training at the VA Medical Center of Long Beach, where he continues to provide specialized care to veterans. Dr. Hahn’s commitment to excellence and extensive experience in general and specialized dentistry underscore his authority and trustworthiness as a dental professional.
Connect with Dr. Kerry Hahn on LinkedIn
Jake Sylwanowicz, DDS
Dr. Jake Sylwanowicz is a highly skilled general dentist known for his comprehensive approach to patient care. A
UCLA School of Dentistry graduate with honors, Dr. Jake furthered his training at the VA Medical Center Long Beach, gaining expertise in treating complex dental cases. His focus on building lasting patient relationships and broad knowledge across all aspects of dentistry make him a trustworthy and authoritative figure in his field.
Dmitriy Ivanov, DDS
Dr. Dmitriy Ivanov is a specialist in Periodontics with advanced training in periodontal disease treatment, dental implantology, and IV sedation. Graduating summa cum laude from
UC Santa Barbara and
UCLA School of Dentistry, Dr. Ivanov completed a rigorous residency at the Veterans Hospital of West Los Angeles. His role as a former Clinical Instructor at UCLA and his expertise in managing complex cases highlight his authority in the field. Dr. Ivanov’s commitment to providing personalized, top-quality care ensures his patients receive the most trustworthy and effective treatment.
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