Brushing Mistakes to Avoid: How to Protect Your Child’s Teeth and Gums
At Kids Dental Spot, we often see kids who are eager to brush their teeth but might not always do it in the safest way. While brushing is an essential habit for oral health, using the wrong technique can actually harm teeth and gums. In this blog, we’ll go over common brushing mistakes, how to correct them, and the best practices for keeping your child’s mouth healthy.
Brushing Mistakes to Avoid
1. Brushing Too Hard
One of the most common mistakes kids make is brushing too hard. Many think that scrubbing their teeth vigorously will clean them better, but brushing with too much force can wear down tooth enamel and irritate the gums.
How to correct it: Teach your child to brush gently, using soft, circular motions rather than pressing down hard on the teeth. Encourage them to think of brushing as a gentle "massage" for their teeth and gums, not a scrubbing session.
2. Using the Wrong Toothbrush
Some kids (and even adults) use toothbrushes with hard bristles, thinking they will clean better. However, hard bristles can damage delicate gum tissue and wear away enamel over time.
How to correct it: Always choose a toothbrush with soft bristles, which are much gentler on both the teeth and gums. The bristles should feel smooth and flexible, allowing them to clean effectively without causing harm. Make sure the brush head is small enough to fit comfortably in your child’s mouth and reach all areas.
3. Skipping the Gums
Children often focus only on their teeth and forget to brush their gums. However, plaque and bacteria build up along the gumline, and neglecting this area can lead to gum disease.
How to correct it: Remind your child that the gums are just as important as the teeth. When brushing, have them aim the bristles at a 45-degree angle toward the gumline. This technique helps clean away plaque and bacteria while keeping the gums healthy. Encourage gentle brushing around the gums to avoid irritation.
4. Brushing Too Quickly
Kids can sometimes rush through brushing, giving their teeth just a quick scrub and calling it done. But short brushing sessions often miss spots, leaving plaque behind.
How to correct it: Make sure your child brushes for at least two minutes each time, focusing on all areas of the mouth—front, back, and chewing surfaces. You can set a timer or play a two-minute song to make brushing more fun and keep them on track.
5. Not Changing the Toothbrush Regularly
Many families forget to replace toothbrushes often enough. Over time, bristles become frayed and less effective at cleaning, and old toothbrushes can harbor bacteria.
How to correct it: Replace your child’s toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become worn. A fresh toothbrush ensures better cleaning and keeps their mouth healthier.
The Importance of Brushing Gums
Brushing the gums is critical for overall oral health. The gums support and protect the teeth, and neglecting them can lead to gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), which can cause bleeding and discomfort. Over time, untreated gum disease can even lead to tooth loss.
By encouraging your child to brush their gums gently and regularly, you help them maintain strong, healthy gum tissue, which is essential for long-term oral health.
Choosing the Right Toothbrush for Your Child
When selecting a toothbrush, keep these factors in mind:
Soft Bristles: Soft bristles are gentle on the teeth and gums, reducing the risk of damage. Avoid medium or hard-bristled toothbrushes.
Small Brush Head: A smaller brush head is easier for children to maneuver in their mouths and ensures they can reach all areas, including back teeth and the gumline.
Comfortable Handle: Choose a toothbrush with a handle that fits comfortably in your child’s hand, making it easier for them to grip and use properly.
Final Thoughts
Proper brushing habits start with the right technique and tools. By avoiding common brushing mistakes, like brushing too hard or skipping the gums, and using a soft-bristled toothbrush, your child will be on the path to a healthy smile. Encourage gentle brushing, focus on all areas of the mouth, and make sure to replace the toothbrush regularly.
At Kids Dental Spot, we’re here to help your family build strong oral care habits that last a lifetime. Brushing should be fun, safe, and effective, so let’s work together to protect those little teeth and gums!
Kids Dental Spot is a childrens dental office focused providing pediatric dental services to patients in Anaheim, California. Serving kids, children, infants and adolescents in the heart of Orange County and nearby neighborhoods, such as: Fullerton, Brea, Garden Grove, Santa Ana, Buena Park, Placentia, and Orange.
Written and Medically Reviewed by Dr. Atiya Bahmanyar, DDS (Board Certified - Doctorate of Dental Surgery)
