Parents have to take special care of their child’s teeth to help them maintain healthy teeth and gums. If you’re a parent of a young child, you may have many questions about how to take care of your child’s teeth. Your pediatric dentist in North Englewood, NJ, can answer your questions.

At Dental Care 4 Kids, we place a strong emphasis on patient education to help ensure our patients have the resources they need to maintain good oral hygiene. Below are some of the answers to common questions that parents ask about their child’s oral hygiene.

1. When should I start brushing my child’s teeth?

Start brushing your child’s teeth as soon as the first tooth has appeared. Use a baby-sized toothbrush or wrap gauze around your finger to get their tooth clean.

2. When should my child start seeing the dentist?

Your child should start to see the dentist by the time they turn one year old. Bring them to the dentist even if they don’t have teeth! The dentist can catch problems in the early stages and, if needed, will choose a treatment plan.

3. When can my child start brushing their own teeth?

Kids need the dexterity and hand-eye coordination to brush their teeth well. Most kids aren’t ready to brush their teeth until they turn about 7 years old.

4. When should my child start flossing?

Your child should start flossing as soon as they have two touching teeth. You can floss your child’s teeth for them.

5. How can I get my child to cooperate for toothbrushing?

Allow your child to choose their own toothbrush. Make toothbrushing fun by singing to them or allowing them to watch videos while you brush their teeth. If you need more ideas, ask the dentist during their next pediatric dental checkup in North Englewood, NJ.