Do you struggle brushing your toddler’s teeth?

The answer is we all do!! Toddlers are very mobile and the #1 key to properly brush their teeth is to keep them still for a minute or two. Here are some tips and tricks on how to PROPERLY brush (and floss too if teeth starts touching each other) your squirmy child’s teeth. ☺️

Tip #1. Make toothbrushing a part of your child’s daily routine.

Whether your child is in the mood or not for toothbrushing, you just have to consistently do it- twice a day, everyday.

Tip #2. Do not be afraid to brush your child’s teeth.

Remember that you are not inflicting pain but are actually saving them from the torture of experiencing toothache. Children hate being pinned into one position so stay calm, take charge, and get it done as quickly yet thoroughly as possible.

Tip #3. Make brushing enjoyable for them.

Be creative- read books, sing songs, role play or watch videos about toothbrushing. It is important that no matter how much your child refuse brushing, the event before and after it is what matters most for them.

Tip #4. Proper positioning is important to have a good control of your child’s head and body in case of uneccesary movements.

Do not hesistate to ask a 2nd adult to assist you in positioning your child for toothbrushing. If help is not available, you can do the legwrap position (as in the video) or any position with the adult standing or sitting behind the child for properr visibility and access to the mouth. Do not forget to lift the lips and cheeks too!

Tip #5. Get your child involved in the task.

Toddlers naturally strive for independence and control so let them pick their own toothbrush and toothpaste, or let them brush your teeth too!

Tip #6. Visit the dentist as soon as your child’s 1st baby tooth appears.

Pediatric dentists will help you gain confidence in brushing your child’s teeth by teaching and demonstrating proper oral hygiene measures based on your child’s age and caries susceptibility. Remember, prevention is always better than cure.

We can all agree that toothbrushing a toddler can be a downright battle (even pros are not exempted 😉), but I assure you that IT WILL GET EASIER. I always remind parents how much harder it is for their child to get a dental filling or extraction compared to just regularly brushing, flossing and visiting the dentist. Keep in mind that taking care of the teeth at an early age provides a foundation for a better oral health in adulthood. ❤️