Baby Teeth

Early Brushing

A Guide to Early Brushing

Your child's mouth is amazing in so many ways, and the day those first baby teeth appear is a milestone for you both. First teeth (sometimes called "milk teeth") mean many new experiences — so it's important to keep teeth clean from the very first day you can see them.

But how do you actually brush those tiny teeth? A soft-bristled children's toothbrush or a washcloth is the best place to start. Use a pea sized amount of fluoride toothpaste for children 6 years of age and older. For children under the age of six, consult with your dentist or physician. Talking helps too. Tell your children what you're doing and although they might not understand, your voice will help reassure them.

Chances are, your kids will want to get involved and may even bite on the brush. Let them hold, bang and chew their toothbrushes to get them familiar and relaxed with brushing. However, you should be careful not to let your children walk around with their toothbrushes in their mouths. Once they get the hang of brushing, your kids will be on their way to a lifetime of good habits and healthy teeth! Just rub around the front, back and chewing surfaces of each tooth with a gentle circular motion.

Before you know it, they'll be two or three years old and ready to take more responsibility for brushing their own teeth. They'll love it — but until their motor skills are more refined, you'll still need to brush properly for them.