Brushing Tips for Young Children

BRUSH THOSE SUGAR BUGS AWAY!

Oral hygiene is one of the most important players in preventing tooth decay, along with diet and individual factors. Learning the proper technique of brushing and starting at the appropriate age will play a huge role in making sure children experience less tooth decay.

Here’s how to introduce and continue proper oral hygiene habits for your child!

START EARLY!

• Start brushing the teeth as soon as they appear your child’s mouth.Start with a finger brush if easier to brush all present teeth.
• Use a tissue to wipe the gums where teeth are not present yet. Try to wipe and clean after each feeding as well!
• Practice regular morning and bed-time brushing routine with your toddler.
• This early start will make brushing easier as your child ages.
• Brushing early on will also prepare your child for their dental visits and professional dental cleanings.

BRUSH THE RIGHT WAY!

• Choose a soft, small and circular brush head.
• Perform circular motions with the toothbrush going from the gums to the tooth.
• Make sure to clean all exposed tooth surfaces during brushing.
• Do not forget the molars in the back, in every corner – these are the teeth that most commonly are forgotten and often have tooth decay!
• Floss first, and then follow with brushing to allow the toothpaste to slip between teeth and provide fluoride to all surfaces.
• Use fluoride toothpaste in age appropriate amounts – rice grain for children under 3 years, and pea size for children over 3 years old.
• An adult should be brushing a child’s teeth until the child can tie their own shoelaces.

HAVE FUN WITH IT!

• Have your child practice proper brushing on their stuffed toys
• Make it a family activity, brush your own teeth with your child
• Use a reward system – reward with a sticker or toy
• Have a brushing song!
• Get a timer, and have your child brushing for 2 minutes
• Do a quick check before the child is given their reward!