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American Dental Association Recommended Cleaning for Children

Tooth decay or other chronic dental problems can cause eating, concentration and speaking problems in children. In addition, serious tooth decay can be painful and expensive to fix and cause children to miss school. The American Dental Association, a dental society founded in 1859, publishes guidelines to promote dental health and reviews dental products for safety and efficacy. ADA guidelines recommend that children brush, floss and use a fluoride rinse daily and have regular dental check-ups.

  1. Brushing

    • Children should brush their teeth at least twice a day using a pea-sized amount of ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste, according to ADA guidelines. This helps remove food particles that encourage bacterial growth and plaque. Children need new toothbrushes every three to four months or as soon as the bristles look worn or frayed. The ADA recommends that parents help children brush their teeth until about age 7 and then supervise their brushing until age 10 or 11.

    Flossing

    • Children should floss their teeth daily to remove the food particles and plaque that brushes can't reach. Flossing can be difficult for children, so the ADA recommends that parents floss children's teeth until about age 10 and supervise flossing for children older than 10.

    Fluoride Mouth Rinse

    • A fluoride or anti-microbial rinse kills germs that live in the mouth, which can reduce plaque and gum disease. However, the ADA does not recommend that children 6 years old and younger use mouth rinses, because they might swallow the rinse. Choose rinses that have the ADA seal for children seven and up.

    Dental Checkups

    • Children should visit the dentist regularly for preventive dental care, such as professional cleanings and X-rays. All children are different, so ask your dentist how frequently your child needs checkups. Many children won't tell their parents about chronic dental pain, so don't take chances; most dental problems are easier and less expensive to fix if you can intervene earlier.

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