Plaque is a film that forms on the teeth after eating and drinking. It contains bacteria that can affect oral hygiene by contributing to tooth decay and gum disease. Teaching children about plaque early on ensures they take dental care seriously while also helping establish healthy habits for life. Here are a few tips for parents when having this important discussion.  

Why It's Crucial for Parents to Discuss Plaque

Brushing, flossing, and twice-yearly dental visits are effective in the fight against plaque. As a result, they're crucial aspects of avoiding cavities and gum disease, which can become quite serious in their advanced stages. Plaque is soft when it forms on teeth, which means it's also easy to remove. 

However, as it hardens and turns into tartar, a dentist must use special tools to remove it and prevent further damage. Even the best at-home care can't remove plaque entirely from tooth enamel, though, so regular cleanings at the dentist's office are essential.

Talking about plaque with your kids empowers them to take control of their oral health. It also establishes a firm foundation for a great smile as an adult. When your child understands what plaque is, the importance of proper dental care, and why brushing and flossing are so essential, they're far less likely to experience advanced cavities and gum disease as they grow older. 

How to Teach Your Kids About Plaque and Oral Hygiene

You should begin brushing your child's teeth as soon as their first tooth erupts, which typically occurs at about 7 months. This twice-daily task can continue until your child exhibits the awareness and dexterity to do so on their own. 

Once they're old enough to comprehend—around the ages of 3 to 5—introduce them to the concept of plaque using child-friendly words and phrases. You can also discuss how proper brushing and flossing remove plaque from teeth so that the film doesn't harden and cause yucky problems, which is why they're so important. Using phrases like "that sticky stuff that's on your teeth when you don't brush" is more helpful than describing plaque as a "film that builds up on tooth enamel."

As your child grows older, you can take additional steps to encourage good dental care at home. Some parents use reward charts, where kids get a special prize or gift after earning a certain number of stars for proper care. You can also expose your child to dental-friendly books and videos to reinforce your discussions. 

Finding the right dentist is another important factor in good oral hygiene for life. Located in High Point, NC, and serving patients of all ages, Kid Smiles provides dental care for children in a soothing and relaxed office environment. This team emphasizes the importance of preventive care in a way young patients can understand, and their flexible hours, including Saturdays, help every family find time for regular appointments. They also take the time to offer tips to kids and adults, which ensures your at-home dental care is highly effective. Prepare for an appointment by visiting them online, or call (336) 885-5437 for more information.