Early dental care forms the foundation of a lifetime of excellent oral health. Most parents know that they should brush their children's teeth twice each day, but they may be unsure of the proper technique to follow.
This blog will explain the process of brushing a child's teeth and provide tips to make brushing more manageable and fun.
A Step-By-Step Guide to Brushing Your Child's Teeth
Choose Your Equipment
The first step is choosing the right tool for the job. The best choice is a soft or extra-soft toothbrush that moves easily in the child's mouth.
Use fluoride toothpaste after the first teeth erupt. Most parents choose children's toothpaste because the flavors are more appealing, but adult toothpaste is also acceptable. Dental researchers find that the benefits outweigh the small risks of swallowing fluoride. Use a smear of toothpaste the size of a rice grain for infants and a pea-sized amount for ages 4 to 9.
Brush for a Full Two Minutes
One of the guidelines that many parents miss is brushing for two minutes. Many parents believe that covering all tooth surfaces is enough, even if it only takes thirty seconds. Brushing for two minutes is best for patients of all ages. Divide the child's mouth into quarters and spend 30 seconds in each section.
Hold the Brush at a 45-degree Angle
Keeping the bristles at a 45-degree angle to the gum line will help clean the most crucial areas where gum disease can take hold. Even young children can develop gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease.
Use Gentle Circular Motions
Gently rub the bristles around the child's mouth, covering every surface. Move the toothbrush in small circles. Avoid scrubbing too hard to avoid gum damage and discomfort.
Floss When Teeth Touch
You should start flossing your child's teeth by about age four, beginning when the teeth touch their neighbors. You may find it easier to use a pre-threaded floss pick rather than winding your fingers around dental floss.
Brush At Least Twice Daily
Create a healthy routine of brushing in the morning and at night. Let your children see you care for your teeth and maintain good habits.
Tips to Make Brushing Fun
- Use a special song or video to time toothbrushing
- Allow your child to practice brushing and flossing, but complete the task yourself
- Encourage dental role-play, including brushing stuffed animals' or doll's teeth
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Oral Hygiene
When should I start brushing my child's teeth?
Excellent oral hygiene starts in infancy. Use a damp, soft baby washcloth to wipe your child's gums after each feeding. When your baby's teeth appear, begin gently brushing them with a soft toothbrush and children's fluoride toothpaste. Start with a smear the size of a grain of rice. Over time, you can increase the toothpaste to a pea-sized amount by about age four.
Why should I brush my child's baby teeth when they will fall out eventually?
Many parents mistakenly believe that because a child's baby teeth will fall out, they do not need daily care. However, this mistake can lead to a lifetime of oral health issues and higher overall costs for dental care.