As a parent, you might be pulled in so many different directions at once. It can be a lot to keep track of, so some things may fall through the cracks. However, one that shouldn’t be forgotten is your child’s oral health. It’s important that you help them develop good dental habits to prevent cavities. Brushing is a great way to do this, so keep reading to learn when to start and how to do it properly.
Start Brushing as Soon as Their First Tooth Erupts
You can start your loved one’s oral healthcare even when their smile is all gums. Use a damp washcloth to wipe their mouth and prevent bacteria from building up. When their first tooth starts to erupt, it’s prime time to start brushing.
Using a clean, damp cloth or a soft-bristled baby toothbrush, you can gently scrub their teeth and tongue. As more teeth show up, you can introduce fluoride toothpaste. Use a rice-sized amount after feedings and before bed to remove any food residue and get your child used to brushing early on.
Teach Your Child How to Properly Brush
When your loved one is older, about age three to six, then you can have them start brushing their own growing smiles. You’ll have to supervise them until about age seven or eight, so it’s important you show them how! Here are some basics:
- Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
- Angle their toothbrush at 45 degrees toward their gumline.
- Do small, circular motions, be gentle, and guide their hand.
- Brush their tongue from the back to the front.
- Make sure they do it for two minutes.
Make Brushing into a Fun Activity
That being said, it might be hard to get your child to properly brush. You might be tempted to let it be, but a great way to get them excited about their oral health is to make it fun! An easy way to do this is to play their favorite song and encourage them to do this step in their dental hygiene the entire time.
It can also be helpful to let your loved one pick out their own products, such as a toothbrush with their favorite character on it or a different flavored toothpaste (just be sure it has fluoride)! You can reward them for their consistent habits with stickers, privileges, or small toys.
A great way to keep them on track is by brushing your teeth with them. Doing it together can be a bonding moment, but it can also help you see how they are doing with their oral healthcare. That way, their growing smiles stay the best they deserve to be.
About the Practice
Led by Dr. Homer Sedighi and Dr. Jessica Martin, our team is happy to help tiny teeth here in Chesterfield. We are passionate about teaching children about their grins and making their dental hygiene something fun. Through regular checkups, we can take steps against cavities and give you the resources you need to feel confident with your loved one’s at-home oral care. If you need some assistance with your child’s brushing habits, schedule an appointment or call our office at (636) 777-7777.