It’s every parent’s worst nightmare to have a child that won’t brush his or her teeth. Brushing your children’s teeth is difficult primarily because children move around, fidget, and in general do not want to hold still. This is especially true when you have put something (a toothbrush) into their mouth.
Start out young
To better prepare your child for teeth care later on in life, you should begin working with them when they are first born as infants. Although your child does not have teeth, he or she will have gums that do need to be cared for properly. Gently wipe the gums with a soft cloth that has been moistened in water first.
Gum Rubbing in Infancy
If your little one does not yet have teeth, be sure to avoid toothpaste. You may think that rubbing your child’s gums could hurt him or her, but in actuality, it will likely make them feel better. This is especially true for those young ones who are going through the process of teething.
The First Tooth
From the minute your child gets his or her first tooth, he or she should come in for their first pediatric dental appointment at your family dental clinic, and schedule the next for a year after that, etc. This is also when the first home care routine should be instituted. Brush your child’s teeth twice a day using a soft toothbrush with a small head. Remember to continue to avoid toothpaste until the child is old enough to spit and swallow on their own.
At 2 or 3 it’s Time for your Child to Brush
When your child reaches the age of two or perhaps three years old, it is time to introduce them to the concept of brushing their own teeth by themselves. Talk them through the process and show them how to hold the toothbrush. Also explain to them how important it is for your child to brush their teeth. Make sure they are told about plaque and bacteria build-up that can occur.
This is the beginning of a great foundation for a forever healthy and glowing smile. Children who begin brushing earlier are more likely to understand the importance as well as the proper way to brush. They are also more likely to continue brushing well into the future.
