How to Brush Baby Teeth

Creating Healthy Habits in Your Children

Navigating the world of your child’s oral health can be a bit bewildering for first-time parents. From figuring out the right time to start brushing your child’s teeth to mastering the technique, it’s natural to have questions. At A Smile to Grow With, we recognize the hurdles parents face in ensuring their children’s dental care is on point, so we’ve assembled some guidance to simplify the process for you.

Starting Your Child’s Dental Routine:

– Before baby teeth appear: Keep your baby’s mouth clean by gently wiping the gums with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid exposing your child to unnecessary sugars by not sweetening pacifiers or cleaning them with your mouth.

– With the arrival of the first baby tooth: It’s time to introduce a small, soft-bristled toothbrush designed for infants.

– For children under 3 years old: Use a tiny smear of toothpaste. Brush gently in circular motions to clean both teeth and gums for two minutes.

– For children aged 3 and older: Upgrade to a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste, maintaining the circular brushing motion for two minutes. Teach your child to spit out the toothpaste afterward.

Consistent brushing twice daily, introducing flossing when two adjacent teeth emerge, and replacing the toothbrush every three to four months are key steps in maintaining oral health.

Making Brushing Fun

Turning toothbrushing into a fun and engaging activity can significantly enhance your child’s attitude towards it. Here are some tips to make dental hygiene enjoyable:

– Personalize the experience: Let your child choose their own toothbrush with soft bristles and a design they love.

– Incorporate play: Introduce a favorite toy during brushing time, allowing your child to practice brushing the toy’s teeth (sans toothpaste) as a form of play and learning.

– Share the responsibility: Start brushing together, then halfway through, encourage your child to try brushing on their own or with your guidance. This promotes involvement and builds brushing skills.

– Set a musical timer: Play a two-minute song they like, establishing a fun routine that signals when brushing starts and ends.

– Celebrate brushing: Offer praise after each brushing session to foster a positive view of dental care.

We’re Here to Support You

At A Smile to Grow With in Rochester, NY, we’re dedicated to supporting families in achieving the best oral health for their children. Our team is here to provide advice and answer any questions you might have about starting your child on their journey to a lifetime of healthy smiles. Whether you’re scheduling a routine check-up or seeking advice on dental care practices, we’re just a call away.

Call Our Office Learn More About Baby Teeth Care