As a parent, helping your toddler maintain good oral hygiene is crucial for preventing tooth decay and setting them up for a lifetime of healthy teeth. So this week, one of PDAO’s pediatric dentists, Dr. Jon, shares his top three tips for making tooth brushing time easier and more effective!
1. Positioning is key
Dr. Jon recommends laying your toddler on the ground or carpet, with their head facing upward. Position yourself behind or to the side of your child, placing one leg over each of their arms to keep them comfortably in place. This position allows you to see all their teeth clearly, just like a dentist would in the office.
2. Access the gum line
Toddlers can be protective of their sensitive gum line, which may be inflamed or even bleeding slightly as new teeth come in. To properly clean this area, Dr. Jon suggests using a clean finger to gently retract your toddler’s lip, exposing the gum line. Then, using a soft-bristled toothbrush with a smear of fluoridated toothpaste, brush along the gum line and teeth, feeling the bristles against your fingernail to ensure thorough cleaning.
3. Make it fun and involve your toddler
While your toddler may not have the dexterity to brush their teeth effectively on their own, letting them practice after you’ve finished can help them become more comfortable with the process. During brushing, try humming or singing a song to make the experience more enjoyable. You can find many tooth-brushing-related songs from popular children’s shows on various music platforms.
By following these tips from Dr. Jon, you can help ensure your toddler’s teeth stay healthy and cavity-free!
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