Mt. Airy, MD Pediatric Dentist Hygiene Products

Our office offers recommended and trusted products to maximize your child’s oral health. We offer these products as part of our pediatric dental services.

Plaque HD

This toothpaste contains a green disclosing agent that will identify plaque left on the teeth. Brush teeth twice a day until all traces of green are removed. This toothpaste also contains fluoride and should be used in place of your regular toothpaste. Available in Berry Bubble Gum or Mint flavors.

Clinpro 5000

Your dentist recommends this prescription-strength toothpaste for children and adults with a high risk of cavities. It is used twice daily in place of regular toothpaste with no rinsing. This prescription-strength formulation is only sold by the dental office. Available in Spearmint, Vanilla Mint, and Bubble Gum flavors.

Oral Hygiene FAQs

Below we will answer common oral hygiene questions: 

How do you reverse plaque on your teeth?

To reverse plaque on teeth, you should brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Flossing at least once a day can also help. Using an antimicrobial mouthwash can reduce bacteria. You should also cut down on sugary foods if you consume them regularly. They promote plaque. Professional dental cleanings from a dentist or dental hygienist once or twice a year are important. Only dental professionals can remove hardened tartar.

Can you wipe off plaque?

No. You can’t simply wipe off plaque. It is a sticky film of bacteria that adheres to teeth. Wiping with a cloth or tissue won’t effectively remove it. However, brushing and flossing help mechanically remove plaque accumulation daily.

You need periodic professional dental cleanings to fully remove plaque above and below the gumline. Dentists and hygienists use scaling instruments to scrape off the hardened calculus deposits gently. 

At what age should I get my toddler a professional teeth cleaning?

Most dental experts recommend taking your child for their first dental by their first birthday or when their first tooth emerges. After this initial visit, your dentist will advise on how often to return. Pediatric dentists usually suggest professional teeth cleanings and check-ups every six months, starting around age 2 or 3. This is a time when more teeth will start to come in.

Is it okay for kids to use fluoride-free toothpaste?

Yes. Children can use fluoride-free toothpaste if their parents prefer it. However, many pediatric dentists advise using fluoride toothpaste for children under the age of three. At least 1,000 ppm fluoride is sufficient for a child that age. 

If you have reservations about fluoride toothpaste for your child, speak with a pediatric dentist. Remember, Fluoride is a key ingredient in many toothpastes because it effectively prevents cavities.

What is the most common dental problem in children?

Tooth decay in the form of cavities is by far the most prevalent dental issue affecting children. This is largely due to consuming sugary foods and drinks without proper oral hygiene practices. Moreover, most young children aren’t proficient at brushing and flossing without supervision.

Other common dental problems in children include pediatric gingivitis, thumb sucking, and bad breath. Overall, regular dental checkups, adequate brushing and flossing, and limiting sugar intake are the best ways to lower their risk of oral health issues.

What is a dental hygiene kit for children?

A dental hygiene kit for children contains important items to help them maintain good personal and oral hygiene. It usually includes a child-sized toothbrush, kid-friendly toothpaste, dental floss, a comb or hairbrush, and child-safe nail clippers. Some kits might also have mild soap or body wash. The kit’s goal is to teach kids the importance of good oral hygiene and cleanliness from a young age.