It’s important to start healthy habits at a young age.
If you feel like you are constantly struggling to brush your child’s teeth, you are not alone. Toddlers are notoriously strong-willed and defiant as they test the limits of the independence and explore their world. Your little one may be too busy playing to want to brush their teeth, but the reality is that oral health is an important part of their overall wellbeing, and starting good habits at a young age will help to keep their teeth and gums healthy in the long-term. So, how do you establish an oral hygiene routine for your toddler? And how often do you really need to brush their teeth?
When should I start brushing?
You can actually start cleaning your child’s mouth before their first tooth has even erupted. Simply use a damp washcloth to wipe your child’s gums — this helps to keep the mouth clean and prevents the build-up of harmful bacteria.
Once your baby has teeth, you can begin to brush them gently with a soft toothbrush designed specifically for infants. There is no need to use toothpaste at this stage — warm water is sufficient. From around the age of 18 months, you can start to use a child-friendly toothpaste. Use a very small amount as they adjust to this new addition to the routine.
As your child grows, you can use more toothpaste. From about the age of three years old, a pea-sized amount of toothpaste should do the trick. Teach your child to spit after brushing — you may need to demonstrate this to young children.
How do I brush?
The first step in brushing your child’s teeth properly is to choose the correct toothbrush. It is best to use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head that fits their mouth comfortably.
When it comes to the correct brushing technique, there are a few factors to consider. First, make sure that your child is comfortable — they may choose to sit on your lap, or stand in front of you. When you are both ready, put the toothbrush into your child’s mouth and angle it towards the gums. Brush in gentle, circular motions as you clean the outer teeth and gums. Gradually move your way around the mouth, ensuring that you clean the gums and teeth on the inside of the mouth and all chewing surfaces.
How can I make it fun?
If your child is resistant to their oral hygiene routine, you may find it helpful to add a bit of fun to the regime. Make brushing an interactive activity by allowing your little one to practice on their favourite stuffed animal.
You might consider creating a reward chart for your child. Fun stickers are often a good incentive to keep the brushing momentum going. It can also be helpful to play a favourite song while they brush their teeth — music is a good distraction, plus it can serve as a timer to ensure that you brush for long enough each time.
How can we help?
At Lara Smile Group, we love providing dental care to the whole family. We especially love welcoming our youngest patients to our practice and getting them excited about caring for their smiles from an early age. We believe that children’s dentistry is very important and that it’s never too early for your little one to experience a dental visit.
If you have a young child, we encourage you to bring them in for their first check-up between the ages of two and three years old. You can even bring them in when you come for your own check-up, as this helps to familiarise them with the dental environment.
If you would like to find out more about the children’s dentistry services that we offer at Lara Smile Group, please have a look here. To arrange an appointment, please get in touch here or give us a call on 03 5282 1681.