Convincing a squirming baby or toddler to let you brush a baby tooth may not seem worth the trouble, considering that baby teeth will be eventually replaced by permanent teeth. However, baby teeth, also called primary teeth, play an important role in your child's development. Primary teeth help children speak and chew, and hold space in the jaw for the permanent teeth developing under the jaw, according to the American Dental Association. Incorporating tooth brushing as part of your child's daily routine can help keep her teeth healthy and free from cavities.
Step 1
Place your child on your lap with his back against your chest. Give him a small toy to hold, or ask a family member to sit in front of him and distract him.
Step 2
Wet a child-sized toothbrush with cool water. Place a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on the toothbrush if your child is 2 or older. The American Dental Association recommends cleaning your child's teeth with water only until she is 2 years old.
Step 3
Wrap one arm around your child and hold him securely in place. Use the other arm to gently slide the toothbrush into your child's mouth. If your child won't sit still, ask a family member to help hold him steady while you brush his teeth.
Step 4
Move the toothbrush up and down against the upper and lower teeth. Brush both the outside surfaces of the teeth and the chewing surfaces. Make sure that the toothbrush gently passes over both the teeth and gums. Brushing the teeth while facing a mirror may make it easier to ensure that you brush all areas of your child's mouth.
Step 5
Give your child a glass of water and ask her to rinse out her mouth if she is old enough to use toothpaste.
Step 6
Rinse the toothbrush with water after you finish cleaning your child's teeth and place the brush in a toothbrush holder to dry. Repeat the brushing process every morning and evening.
Tips and Warnings
- If your child only has one or two teeth, you may want to use a wet washcloth to clean the teeth rather than a toothbrush. As more teeth erupt, you can start to use a toothbrush. Beginning tooth cleaning as soon as your child's first tooth erupts can help your child get used to the routine. The Expectant Mother's Guide suggests thinking of tooth cleaning as just another task that must be done with or without cooperation, such as diaper changing or washing a dirty face. The American Dental Association recommends using floss or an interdental cleaner on your child's teeth as soon as any two teeth touch. Floss and cleaners can remove plaque in areas that can't be reached by toothbrushes.
Things You'll Need
- Child-sized toothbrush
- Small toy
- Toothpaste
- Washcloth
