Let your kid choose a toothbrush and a toothpaste they enjoy
Picking the right aids (like toothbrushes and toothpastes) can be the simplest and most straightforward way to set up a proper long-lasting routine.
“It’s not just kids. Grown-ups skip brushing all the time, because for them it can be unpleasant too. Some toothbrushes can feel uncomfortable in your mouth, so you take the time to pick a brush with the head size that’s not too big, not too small. Soft and ultrasoft bristles work well. “
Some toothpastes can leave an unpleasant aftertaste in your mouth, so just pick a toothpaste that you enjoy. When you genuinely enjoy brushing, you are less likely to skip.
The same goes for children. Let them pick the brush they like but make sure it has a comfortable head size and very soft bristles. Try different toothpastes until your child finds one they enjoy using.
But don’t overlook the paste’s contents. When teeth are just forming, a small amount of fluoride is important. Choose the paste based on how much fluoride it contains and how sensitive your child’s mouth is.
How much toothpaste does your child need? For children up to three years old, a rice grain-sized smear is enough. For older children, use a pea-sized amount.
Using an electric toothbrush can be an exciting option if your kids enjoy the way it works and feels. Playing their favourite music can keep them engaged: for example, they have to brush for the whole song. This will encourage brushing for the right amount of time.
“Parents have to brush twice a day and make sure their children know that this is done in the family. Make it a family event every morning and night.”
Proper brushes and pastes are not the primary goal:
“The best way to get your children to brush is to lead by example. Parents have to brush twice a day and make sure their children know that this is done in the family.
Make it a family event every morning and night. Brush together. We have a saying: ‘A family that brushes together stays healthy together’”.
“When parents are determined and feel it is important, they will find ways to clean their children’s teeth.”
At such an early age the child barely even understands the need for a regular bath. It takes time and experience to learn such things, so reasoning and negotiating with the child simply won’t work. Not yet.
Parents don’t always consider brushing very important at this age. So the education should be focused on the parent, too. When parents are determined and feel it is important, they will find ways to clean their children’s teeth.
No rush, let your child practise brushing
Parents need to be aware of their child’s learning curve and know when to help them.
“When children start brushing at an early age, they might at first lack the necessary motor skills. They look at their parents and want to brush their teeth like the grown-ups, but they move the brush in one place, struggle with getting the brush to the molars, bite the head or can’t handle the toothpaste. To a parent, this can be mildly annoying, but that is perfectly natural.
If you see your child struggling with a brush, don’t rush to correct them. Give them time to practise and learn. And if, after some time, you see that the child is stuck, give help: direct movements or offer to finish brushing with your caring hands. Do not rush, though: proper skill is only learned through practice.
