Tooth Brushing
Brushing & Flossing Instructions
Children’s hands and mouths are different than adults. They need to use toothbrushes designed for children. Both adults and children should use brushes with soft, rounded bristles for gentle cleaning. Change to a new brush about every three months or after a child has been sick.
Wipe infant’s teeth and gums gently with a moist, soft cloth. As babies grow, use a child’s toothbrush with a small, rice-grain dab of toothpaste. Begin brushing and flossing your child as soon as teeth are present. It is very important you supervise and help with your child’s brushing. Dr. Aaron, Dr. Mark, or one of their hygienists, would be happy to educate you on proper brushing techniques.
Hold the brush at a 45 degrees angle towards teeth and gums. Move brush back and forth with short strokes, about a half tooth wide, with very light pressure.
- Brush the inside and outside surfaces of each tooth, top and bottom.
- Hold the brush flat on top of the teeth and brush the chewing surfaces.
- Gently brush the tongue to remove debris.
- Floss between teeth daily.
When To Begin Brushing
Once your child’s teeth begin erupting, you can begin cleaning them by wiping them with a moist washcloth or brushing them with toothpaste. Always use a soft bristle toothbrush. You should use just a rice-grain amount of toothpaste. Be very cautious that your child does not swollow tooth paste.
For most toddlers, getting them to brush their teeth can be quite a challenge. Some suggestions for making tooth brushing less of a battle can include:
- Let your child brush your teeth at the same time.
- Let your child pick out a few toothbrushes with his favorite characters and giving him a choice of which one he wants to use each time (this will give him some feeling of control over the situation).
- Let your child brush, BUT “HELP OUT.” Supervise their care.
- Let your child some children’s books about tooth brushing.
- Have everyone brush their teeth at the same time..
It can also be a good idea to create a “tooth brushing routine”. And stick to the same routine each day.