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. Change to a new brush once the bristles start to fray.

Even with infants, you can use a child’s toothbrush with a small smear of fluoridated toothpaste. Until your child can write his/her name in cursive with relative ease, you will still need to help with brushing. Why?  Your child’s brain is still developing, so your child will need help to move the toothbrush to reach all the necessary areas in the mouth.  Once your child is 3-4 years old and can spit out the toothpaste, encourage the act.  Younger toddlers and infants who can’t spit the toothpaste can swallow the small amount of fluoridated toothpaste without harm. 

Regardless of age, any teeth that are touching should be flossed with either floss sticks or regular floss.

  • Brush the inside and outside surfaces of each tooth, top and bottom.
  • Hold the brush flat on top of the teeth and brush the chewing surfaces.
  • Gently brush the tongue to remove debris.
  • Floss between teeth daily.

When To Begin Brushing

Start brushing your child’s teeth as soon as they erupt with a small smear of fluoridate toothpaste.

For most toddlers, getting them to brush their teeth can be quite a challenge. Some suggestions for making tooth brushing less of a battle can include:

  • Let your child brush your teeth at the same time.
  • Let your child pick out a few toothbrushes with his favorite characters and giving him a choice of which one he wants to use each time (this will give him some feeling of control over the situation).
  • Let your child brush his own teeth first (you will likely have to “help out”).
  • Read your child some children’s books about tooth brushing.
  • Have everyone brush their teeth at the same time.

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