Tooth Brushing

Brushing & Flossing Instructions

Children’s hands and mouths are different than adults. They need to use toothbrushes designed for children. Both adults and children should use brushes with soft, rounded bristles for gentle cleaning. Toothbrushes should be changed every three months. 

  • Brush the inside and outside and tops and bottoms of each tooth.
  • Use gentle, short, circular motions to remove plaque.
  • Hold the brush flat on top of the teeth and brush the chewing surfaces.
  • Brush the tongue gently to remove debris and debris.
  • Floss between teeth daily.

When To Begin Brushing

Once your child’s teeth begin erupting, you can begin cleaning them by wiping them with a moist washcloth. As more teeth start to come in, that is when you can start to use a soft child’s toothbrush with a small pea-sized dab of toothpaste (such as Baby OraGel). Use non-fluoride toothpaste until your child is able to spit the toothpaste out (too much fluoride can stain their teeth).

Getting a toddler to brush can be a challenge, but here are some suggestions: 

  • Let your child brush your teeth.
  • Let your child pick out the toothbrushes they want with the characters and designs they like and let them pick which brush to use when it comes time to brush (this will give them some feeling of control over the situation).
  • Let your child brush his own teeth first (you will have to “have a turn”).
  • Let your child read some children’s books about tooth brushing.
  • Have everyone brush their teeth together.

It can also be a good idea to create a “tooth brushing routine”. And stick to the same routine each day.

Note: You will still need to brush for your child until around age 8.