How to Manage Toothbrushing in Kids with Sensory Issues

1. How to Manage Toothbrushing in Kids with Sensory Issues Toothbrushing is an essential part of maintaining good oral health, preventing plaque build-up, and removing food particles, which otherwise can lead to tooth decay. However, for some children, the sensation of toothbrushing can be overwhelming. Children with sensory issues may have a hard time tolerating the sensation of toothbrushing, and it can be a struggle to get them to brush their teeth. Remember, from an early age, children in general begin to put things in their mouths to learn about tastes and textures. This can be said to be a part of the kids’ growing up as they go through a critical developmental stage called "oral motor control.

2. This is also the time when sensitivity issues in kids become apparent to parents. If a child becomes sensitive to smell, touch, texture, and taste, tooth brushing and eating food can become an ordeal of sorts. They will no longer enjoy brushing, let alone putting paste inside their mouth. So, how do parents like you address the situation? For starters, introduce new textures to the child’s mouth in a step-wise manner to ease the task of maintaining oral hygiene. Most importantly, if such problems arise, take your child to a dental clinic, such as a children's dental clinic in Northcote, and allow the dentist to examine and treat him or her. In this blog, we offer a few toothbrushing tips for kids with sensory issues to help make the process more manageable and less stressful for both parents and children. Steps to Make Brushing Easy for Kids with Tooth Sensitivity The series of steps that parents can take to ease the life of their kids with sensitivity issues are as follows: #1. Make toothbrushing a fun activity. One way to do it is by using a toothbrush with a favorite character or colour. This can make the toothbrush more appealing to children and encourage them to brush their teeth. #2. Use a toothpaste with a mild, pleasant taste. Some children may be sensitive to the taste of toothpaste, and using a toothpaste with a mild flavor can make the experience more pleasant for them. Bottom line: Use a toothpaste that is specifically designed for sensitive teeth. #3. Allow the child to hold and explore the toothbrush before brushing. This can help the child become more familiar with the toothbrush and reduce his or her anxiety about the brushing process. If things do not change, do not hesitate to take your child to a nearby dental clinic, such as the Northcote Family Dental Clinic, to seek a remedy. #4. Apply varnish or fluoride gel to the sensitive teeth. Also, get a dental sealant to protect the sensitive teeth if recommended by the dentist. Here, fluoride helps strengthen the tooth’s enamel, which is the hard, protective outer layer of the tooth. It makes the tooth more resistant to the effects of acid and bacteria, which can cause tooth sensitivity. Fluoride also helps to remineralize small areas of tooth decay, which can also contribute to tooth sensitivity. #5. Dental varnish, on the other hand, is a liquid that hardens on the surface of the teeth

3. and forms a protective barrier. This barrier can help block out the stimuli that cause tooth sensitivity, such as hot and cold temperatures or acidic foods and drinks. The varnish also contains fluoride, which can help strengthen the tooth's enamel and reduce tooth sensitivity. #6. Start with a small amount of toothpaste and gradually increase the amount used. This can help children get used to the sensation of toothpaste in their mouth and reduce the risk of overwhelming them with too much toothpaste at once. #7. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and teach your kid to avoid aggressive brushing. #8. Use a timer or play music to establish a routine. This can help children understand how long they need to brush their teeth and make the process more predictable. #9. Give positive reinforcement and praise for good brushing habits. This can help children develop a positive association with toothbrushing and encourage them to continue brushing their teeth. #10. Wean your child away from consuming sugary or acidic foods and drinks. These can cause tooth sensitivity as the sugar and acid can erode the enamel, the hard outer layer of the tooth. This erosion can expose the softer, more sensitive layer of the tooth called dentin, which can lead to tooth sensitivity. Additionally, the acid can cause the tooth to lose minerals, making it more vulnerable to sensitivity. Brushing your teeth immediately after consuming sugary and acidic foods can also cause tooth sensitivity as the bristles can scratch the enamel, exposing the dentin. #11. If the child has a hard time opening his or her mouth, try using a toothbrush with a smaller head or a toothbrush designed for babies. This can make it easier for children to open their mouths and make toothbrushing less uncomfortable. Additionally, you should visit a dentist, such as a Northcote dentist, to deal with the problem. #12. If the child has a hard time tolerating the sensation of toothbrushing, consider using a vibrating or musical toothbrush or a toothbrush with a built-in timer. These types of toothbrushes can provide a different sensation that may be more comfortable for children. Consider seeking advice from a dental professional for additional support. The dental professional, such as the ones at a Northcote dental clinic, can provide additional tips and strategies for helping children with sensory issues brush their teeth. Be patient; it might take longer for children with sensory issues to get used to brushing, but with time and patience, it will become a regular part of their routine. However, make an appointment with a dentist, such as one at a child dental clinic in Northcote, to receive proper advice and treatment.

4. Conclusion Toothbrushing can be a challenging task for children with sensory issues, but with the right approach and strategy, it can become a manageable and even enjoyable task. By making toothbrushing fun, using a mild-tasting toothpaste, allowing the child to explore the toothbrush, and providing positive reinforcement, parents can make toothbrushing a more comfortable experience for their children. Remember to be patient, as it may take longer for children with sensory issues to get used to toothbrushing, but with time and patience, it will become a regular part of their routine. Finally, see a dentist, such as a Northcote child dental clinic, to prevent any dental problems. Source: https://northcotewebguru.wixsite.com/mysite/post/how-to- manage-toothbrushing-in-kids-with-sensory-issues Thank You