Oral Hygiene Tips
Maintaining good oral hygiene for individuals with Down syndrome can be challenging. Finding a way that works for you and your child is important. Brushing twice a day is essential to maintain good oral health. Monitoring or assisting your child during brushing may be necessary to make sure all areas of the mouth are getting cleaned. Flossing can be difficult so you may need to floss your child’s teeth for them. Floss holders and floss pics can help make flossing easier.
Brushing At Home. When brushing at home, it’s important to stabilize your child’s head by resting their head on your lap or laying your child on the bed. It’s important to start brushing your child's teeth as soon as the teeth begin to erupt. Establishing a routine is helpful. It’s also important to supervise brushing even if your child can brush on their own. Using toothpaste with fluoride is essential in the mineralization process of the teeth. Fluoride in toothpaste and in the city's water system strengthens teeth and prevents tooth decay. Overall, the most important thing to do is to visit a dentist for cleanings and checkups every six months or sooner, depending on risk levels.
