We know that to brush your toddlers teeth can be quite a challenge. Yet it is important to keep those baby teeth healthy! Long-term dental health is built on a foundation of good hygiene habits instilled at an early age. Consistent, daily hygiene not only makes for healthy teeth and gums but an attractive smile too! We have broken down the best way to brush your toddlers teeth into six steps.
Get Ready
Have your toddler’s toothbrush ready with a pea-sized amount of American Dental Association-approved toothpaste.
Tag-Team
The easiest way for brushing your toddlers teeth is with both parents seated, facing each other knee-to-knee. With your toddler reclining on your lap, one parent brushes her teeth while the other parent gently holds her hands.
Brushing your toddlers teeth can also be accomplished alone by laying your child on her back in your lap and wrapping your legs around your child’s legs while cradling her head in your arms.
Distraction
Distract your child while letting him/her play with a small toy, such as a ball or a plastic car, while brushing your toddlers teeth. Even dentists have a hard time brushing a toddler’s teeth. But you still need to do it, SO DON’T GIVE UP!
Brush the Top
When you brush your toddlers teeth (the top side), do it in small circular motions around the gum area and on both the outside surface as well as the inside surface.
Brush the Bottom
Now, brush his/her bottom teeth. The same circular motions are necessary to remove debris from sticky places close to the gum line.
- To hold your toddler’s lips away from her teeth, make a hook shape with your finger.
- Never put your fingers between your child’s teeth (ouch).
Brush Your Toddlers Teeth: Let Your Child Brush On Their Own
Once you have brushed his/her upper and lower teeth, let your toddler try for themselves!
The ages between one and three are prime toddler time for exploration, learning and acquiring a sense of independence. With patience and persistence, you can teach your child a valuable life skill: excellent oral hygiene habits.
Please contact us to schedule an appointment or use our easy online scheduling system to bring your toddler in for her twice-yearly exams. Our goal is always to make sure you and your child look forward to your visits to our offices. Remember to brush your toddlers teeth for their best oral health!
