The American Dental Association suggests starting to clean your baby’s teeth as soon as they appear. You play a crucial role in your kid’s dental health, and one of the biggest tasks is teaching them to look after their teeth. Initially, you can clean their teeth with a rag, but once they’re nearing their first birthday, start to consider brushing. For best results, brush their teeth twice a day, ideally in the morning and before bedtime.
When that first tooth pops up, it’s time to start using a toothbrush. When they’re small, you should brush their teeth for them. To spark their interest, let them choose a toothbrush bearing their favorite character’s image. This little activity will make them more keen to use it. Remember to keep brushing fun – smile often, crack jokes, and make it enjoyable. There’s no hard rule about brushing only in the bathroom. The important thing is that your kid is comfortable.
When it comes to brushing, use a technique that works best for you, whether it’s standing, sitting, or cradling your child’s head for better visibility. For small children, it might be easier to brush their teeth when their head rests on your lap. However, try not to lay them flat on their back as they might gag.
Once you’re set, squeeze a small amount of toothpaste, no more than a pea size, onto their toothbrush. For kids younger than 3 years old, only use toothpaste if there’s a high risk of cavities. Teach your child to spit out the toothpaste and not swallow it. Brush gently in small circles to avoid damaging their gums and teeth.
A thorough brushing should take about 2 minutes. You can use a timer or even brush alongside to a song to keep track of the time. Start with the outer side of the teeth, then the inner side, and lastly the chewing surface. Remember to also brush the tongue gently. When they’re done, help your child rinse their mouth and brush, and let the brush air-dry.
As a parent, try to brush their teeth after each meal, even if it’s without toothpaste. Your child will be ready to brush their own teeth once they can write their name in cursive, typically around 8 years old. Nonetheless, continue supervising them to ensure they’re brushing properly. You’re not just a parent, but a significant part of their dental health journey!
