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| |    Taking Care of Your Toddler's and Preschooler's Teeth by Amy A. Napierala, D.D.S. reviewed by Laura Jana, M.D., F.A.A.P. If you find it challenging at times to clean your young child's teeth, you are not alone. Children this age are quite adept at asserting their independence, and brushing may not be one of your child's favorite pastimes. But you have to gently persist, because it truly is important to maintain a twice-daily routine of brushing her teeth. Tricks of the trade For children over two, this can include using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste when you brush their teeth. In addition, spaces in between their teeth may be closing, making it important to add flossing to the routine. Instead of fighting battles over the importance of clean teeth, try to find fun ways to get your child to want to brush her teeth. This can set her on her way toward a lifetime of good brushing and flossing habits. All snacks are not created equal Diet and proper nutrition are also key factors of your child's dental health--as well as her overall health. Try to choose nutritious snacks, such as cheese and crackers, vegetables, fruit, yogurt, and popcorn. Do not allow your child to snack all day long. Instead, have your child sit down for a treat, and then brush or rinse afterwards. Allow for only one sugar snack a day and incorporate it after lunch or dinner. It is the frequency, as opposed to the quantity, of sugar that children consume each day that increases their risk for tooth decay.
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