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| Dental FAQs for Kids Edmonds, WA  Dental hygiene is very important to a child’s overall health and well being. There is so much information available, you may not know where to start or what questions to ask. No matter your child’s age or needs, our team at Perrinville Family Dentistry can provide you with information and guidance to lead your child to a lifetime of great dental health. When Should I Take My Child to the Dentist?The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that your child get their first dental exam within six months of getting their first tooth. Your child should have their first dental visit by their first birthday, regardless of when they get their first tooth. This first dental visit is important so that our team can check your child’s teeth, gums, and oral tissue for normality, and ensure healthy development. Our team will review the results of this exam with you and guidance regarding continued oral hygiene practices. How Often Should My Child Brush Their Teeth?Your child should brush their teeth twice per day. They should brush once in the morning and once before bed. Both brushing sessions should last two minutes each, according to the ADA. Your child should also floss their teeth during these cleanings as soon as they have adjacent teeth that are touching. Developing good brushing practices early will teach your child good oral hygiene habits. Using a song about brushing to entertain them during the two minutes helps reinforce a positive outlook on brushing. Allowing your child to pick out the appropriate toothbrush will also make this process more exciting and fun. These good habits will influence your child throughout their life. What Kind of Toothbrush and Toothpaste Does My Child Need?Your child’s toothbrush will vary slightly depending on their age. An infant toothbrush will have a small brush head and soft bristles so that it does not irritate your child’s sensitive gums. It should also include a large handle for safety purposes. If your child is over two years old, the toothbrush head may be slightly larger, and the bristles may be slightly firmer. We recommend a toothbrush that your child will enjoy, such as one that is their favorite color. Purchasing a toothbrush that they like is important for making dental hygiene an enjoyable experience. You should purchase a fluoride toothpaste that is appropriate for your child’s age. There are special kinds of toothpaste that are made for children under six years of age. These kinds of toothpaste have the lowest amounts of fluoride and are the safest for children in this age group. If your child is over six years of age, a general children’s toothpaste that contains fluoride is appropriate. How Often Should My Child Get an Exam?After their first exam, your child should have a dental exam every six months. Consistent cleanings in these intervals allow our team to monitor your child’s dental health and provide guidance to you in maintaining good oral hygiene. Regular exams also assist our professionals in detecting any areas of concern early and providing your child with the least invasive treatments possible. Whatever your child’s age and dental needs, our team at Perrinville Family Dentistry can help you put your child on the path to a lifetime of good dental health. Contact us at and make an appointment. |
  HoursMon: Tues: Wed: Thur: Fri: 9am to 6pm 9am to 6pm 8am to 5pm 8am to 5pm 9am to 4pm |
(425) 616-0620 
Gary J. Jacky, DMD