Dentist Dr. Ophir Alalouf owns and serves as managing member at Kids Teeth, LLC, located in Rockville, Maryland. Drawing on advanced training in pediatric dentistry, Ophir Alalouf, DDS, provides children with dental care and advises on the importance of brushing their teeth.

1. THE IMPORTANCE OF
TOOTHBRUSHING FOR
CHILDREN
Ophir Alalouf

2. Introduction
 Dentist Dr. Ophir Alalouf owns and serves as
managing member at Kids Teeth, LLC, located in
Rockville, Maryland. Drawing on advanced training in
pediatric dentistry, Ophir Alalouf, DDS, provides
children with dental care and advises on the
importance of brushing their teeth.
When it comes to preventing the buildup of plaque
throughout a child's teeth and gums, there is no better
defense than correct toothbrushing practices.
Brushing a child's teeth, along with flossing, can also
help dislodge small food particles that might otherwise
lead to the spread of bacteria. Left unchecked, this
bacteria can lead to cavities and other matters of oral
health.

3. Toothbrushing
 While brushing teeth is an important element of
proper hygiene, some parents maintain concerns
about fluoride brand toothpaste, as younger
children can demonstrate sensitivity to fluoride. To
this end, dental professional advise parents to
avoid toothpaste containing fluoride until at least
24 months of age. Until then, parents can use a
specially designed infant's toothbrush and water.
There are also several brands of fluoride-free
toothpaste made specifically for children. Children
aged six or younger, meanwhile, require a very
small amount of toothpaste and should rinse their
mouths often, as they may still be sensitive to
fluoride.

4. Conclusion
 As children age, parents must impart the importance
of teeth brushing so that children can maintain their
own oral health. While infant's may only need to have
their teeth brushed in the morning and evening, most
dental professionals suggest that older children, like
adults, should brush their teeth at least three times a
day, preferably after breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
If a child enjoys a snack at any point during the day,
parents should have the child quickly brush or floss to
remove stray food particles. A normal brushing routine
should last for about two minutes. Parents must
emphasize the brushing of the back molars, as most
childhood cavities occur here.