Regular brushing your child’s teeth is very important to remove plaque. Plaque/tartar is a soft, sticky, and invisible layer of bacteria. Plaque forms on teeth every day.
When to start brushing your child’s teeth?
Start cleaning your child’s teeth on a regular basis, as soon as they appear. Normal time of their appearance is around 6 months.
It’s good practice to start cleaning your child’s baby gums even before teeth erupt. Use a soft & wet cloth to wipe the gums. When a few teeth are present, replace the cloth with a toothbrush with soft bristles & small head.
For children under 17 months, using toothpaste during brushing is not recommended.Make tooth-brushing experience a positive one for both of you & baby.
Choose a time and place when your child is happy during the day and make toothbrushing a fun ‘game’.
For children between 18 months to 5 years, use a small pea-sized amount of baby fluoride toothpaste.
When children are 6 and over, use normal strength toothpaste. The fluoride in toothpaste will help prevent further tooth decay. Children should spit out, and not recommended to swallow or rinse after brushing.
Should children brush their own teeth?
Children should be encouraged to brush their teeth. But they do not have the skill to use a toothbrush correctly until they are around 7 or 8 years old.
It’s important to brush your child’s teeth at twice a day until your child can use a toothbrush. Once in the morning and again before going to bed. Using a fluoride toothpaste is recommended.
Choose a proper position which allows you to see inside your child’s mouth and is comfortable for your baby.
Standing or sitting slightly behind and to the side of your child with the head supported and tilted back slightly may make it easier. This way you will have more control and your child will feel completely safe & secure.
How to brush your child’s teeth?
Start brushing your child’s teeth by placing the tip of the toothbrush bristles towards the gum line. Then gently vibrate the brush, or move it in tiny circles over the teeth and gums.
Repeat the same brushing method on the inside surfaces of all teeth. For the chewing surfaces, use a light backward and forward motion.
Plaque is soft, use the toothbrush very gently.
Move the toothbrush in tiny circles on the outside surfaces of the teeth and gums.
Repeat the same method on the inner surfaces of the teeth.
Use a light backward and forward motion on the chewing surfaces of the teeth.