When should I start to brush my child's teeth?
Teeth should be cleaned as soon as they emerge. By starting
early, your baby gets used to the daily routine. A soft washcloth
wrapped around your finger can substitute for a brush at this time.
Ask your dentist when you should switch to a toothbrush. Some
dentists suggest waiting until four teeth in a row have emerged,
others recommend waiting until the child is 2 or 3 years old.
Simple brushing tips and considerations include:
- Choose a small, child-sized, soft-bristled toothbrush. Soaking
the brush in warm water for a few minutes before brushing can
soften the bristles even more.
- Many dentists recommend using only plain water for brushing up
to the age of 2. This is because young children swallow toothpaste
and swallowing too much fluoride can lead to tooth discoloration in
permanent teeth. Ask your dentist if toothpaste should be used.
Also, check the manufacturer's label; some toothpastes are
not recommended in children under age 6. If a toothpaste is to be
used, squeeze out about a green pea-sized amount of fluoride
toothpaste onto the toothbrush.
- Brush your child's teeth twice a day -- in the morning
and just before bed. Spend 2 minutes brushing, concentrating a good
portion of this time on the back molars. This is an area where
cavities often first develop.
- Replace the toothbrush every 3 or 4 months, or even sooner if
it shows signs of wear. Never share toothbrushes between
children.
- Start flossing your child's teeth once a day as soon as
two teeth that touch emerge.
- Ask your dentist about your child's fluoride needs. If
your drinking water is not fluoridated, fluoride supplements or
fluoride treatments may be needed.
- Ask your dentist about dental sealants. These are thin, plastic
protective barriers that fill in the chewing surfaces of the teeth,
protecting them from tooth decay.
At what age can children begin to brush and floss their teeth
on their own?
Most children lack the coordination to brush or floss their
teeth on their own until about the age of 6 or 7. Up until this
time, remember that the best way to teach a child how to brush
their teeth is to lead by example. Allowing your child to watch you
brush your teeth teaches the importance of good oral hygiene. Not
only does this set a good example, it's also a good oral
hygiene practice. By reducing your own oral bacterial count,
parents reduce the risk of passing cavity-causing bacteria to the
child.