You’ve probably heard over and over again how important it is for both you and your little one to brush twice a day. Many do not, however, touch on the significance of brushing the rest of your mouth and tongue as well. This is especially true for your child. The development of their oral health depends on consistency so the earlier they start the better.
Why Brush My Child’s Tongue?
Brushing your child’s tongue has more than one benefit. Other than helping them form good habits, with children toddler-aged and younger the amount of saliva they create is not always enough to take care of all the pesky bacteria present. Babies especially can develop a white coating of milk remnants. Cleaning their tongue will remove this and other nasty residues from their mouths. Bacteria from food/drink residue sit on your tongue. It can then spread to your teeth even after you have brushed them if your tongue was not brushed. Besides killing bacteria, brushing your child’s tongue can also help eliminate bad breath.
How Can I Clean My Child’s Tongue?
Use a soft, kid-friendly toothbrush with a small rice-sized drop of toothpaste to clean any teeth they may have coming in, and then focus on their tongue by brushing back and forth in a gentle motion. You can also use a soft gauze or washcloth until they have grown a bit more. When your kid is old enough to brush their own teeth, teach them by example.
When you demonstrate the proper form of brushing your tongue and teeth it will be easier for your child to follow along. After they are done, you can go back over and brush the teeth yourself so you know they are properly maintained. When doing this, you can have your child perform the action as you steer their arms. Continue to supervise them for a little after they start doing it on their own. Make sure they are not swallowing toothpaste and rinsing their mouth of any excess.
Routine Visits and Healthy Habits
Regular checkups for your child at the pediatric dentist’s office will also help cement your child’s oral health habits and development. The dentist will check all areas of their oral health including their gums, teeth, and jaw. Your child should begin visiting the dentist either within 6 months of getting their first tooth or by the time they have reached 12 months old (1 year).
Contact Cumberland Valley Pediatric Dentistry with any questions you may have regarding your child’s dental care!
