etting your baby to brush his or her teeth can sometimes feel like, well, pulling teeth!
But, it’s important to get your little one in the habit of brushing at least twice a day as soon as possible. And don’t wait until baby’s teeth have come in. Start ‘brushing’ his gums with a soft finger brush or washcloth after each feeding.
Here’s how:
1. Sit with your baby in your lap facing you, or sideways, so you have a good angle into his or her mouth.
2. Wet the toothbrush and apply toothpaste. Children two and older can start using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Babies under the age of two don’t need toothpaste and should only use water – they’ll get enough fluoride from tap water.
3. Gently scrub and massage the teeth and gums, starting with the front teeth and moving towards the back. Brush in a slow, circular motion on the teeth, and move gently up and down into the gums.
4. Give the tongue a little scrub. (Say ‘ahhhhh!’)
5. Encourage your child to spit out any toothpaste and give them a sip or two of water to rinse out their mouth.
6. If any teeth are touching, be sure to floss after brushing. Try floss geared towards kids that comes with an easy-to-hold handle.
7. Smile... you’re done!
And remember, ideally your baby should have his or her first appointment with the dentist by their first birthday.
