How to brush a child's teeth
brushing a toddler's teeth · children's tooth brushing · child dental care
A child's teeth need brushing from the very first tooth. Here is how to do it at home simply and calmly.
For all parents, from the first tooth until the child can brush alone.
⏱ Duration: usually 2 minutes in the morning and evening
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Toothbrush. A soft children's toothbrush for their age. Replace it about every 3 months.
- Toothpaste. Children's fluoride toothpaste. The amount depends on age, from a smear to a pea size, so check with your dentist.
- Position. It is easy to stand behind your child, or lay them with their head on your lap.
What to bring
- A children's toothbrush
- Children's toothpaste
- A mirror so your child can see
How it goes
- Put a small amount of toothpaste on the brush
- Hold your child so you can see their teeth
- Brush each tooth with gentle circles
- Brush the inside surfaces
- Brush the chewing surfaces
- Let your child spit out the toothpaste, if they can
- Praise your child
What you'll feel
- Small children often resist, which is normal
- A game, a song, or taking turns, "first me, then you," helps
Afterwards
- Help brush until about school age
- After the evening brushing, only water
- Give sweets with meals, not between meals
- See a dentist on schedule
Common questions
Should my child rinse after brushing?
Usually advised only to spit, not to rinse with lots of water. Check with your dentist.
What if my child won't let me brush?
Do not give up: brush briefly but every day, and turn it into a game.