Not only is brushing your teeth something you can do to keep your mouth clean, but it can also be fun! Watch this fun video where preschooler Mason demonstrates how he brushes his teeth with his tiger puppet friend. Then, see how he brushes his own teeth and rinses with water.
Mason uses a toothbrush and toothpaste, making sure to ask his mom when he needs it to apply the toothpaste to the toothbrush. If you need help, you can always ask a parent or a guardian to make sure that you are brushing your teeth as well as you can. They can help guide and teach you how to brush your teeth correctly. He also mentions that you should brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes. This is the standard set by the American Dental Association, also known as the ADA. This is important because this amount of time allows you to rid your teeth of plaque that builds up as you eat and drink throughout the day. Plaque is what causes cavities to form in your teeth. Also make sure that you have a toothbrush that is the appropriate size for your mouth. Mason’s toothbrush is one meant for children, and it works better as a result because it fits his mouth. When finished, spit the toothpaste out and wash it down the sink. Don’t swallow it as toothpaste is good for your teeth, not your stomach.
Dental health needs change over time as you and your teeth grow and develop. Mason has already established some good dental habits that are important to have to maintain his dental health as he grows up. By beginning young, you can make it easier for you to keep up these good habits in the future. Be like Mason and his tiger friend and have a clean, healthy smile!