Good dental hygiene is an important part of living a healthy life. It is vital that children start learning about brushing their teeth as early as possible.



The idea is that children brushing their teeth early will learn the proper hygiene techniques and get into a routine. This will lead them to proper tooth care as an adult.



Start children by setting a good example. When they see their caregivers brushing their teeth they will be interested in the process. Make it look fun. When the child starts to enjoy brushing their teeth begin discussing the importance of this routine. It will be fun to give them something to drink or to eat that could stain teeth. They can brush the stain away. This could really be fun for children and be a visual lesson of how brushing teeth removes harsh elements from the teeth.

Introduce a fun cleansing experience with fun utensils. There are plenty of youth toothbrushes, toothpastes and cups available featuring favorite cartoon or toy characters such as Lightin’ McQueen or Cinderella. Take the child to the store to help pick out these important tools to clean teeth. Let them pick out their own toothpaste in a flavor they will enjoy, but for younger children find some without fluoride. These are special edible toothpastes that are safe for the youngest tooth brusher. Remember the floss as well. If a child has trouble reaching the sink then provides a step stool. When children have these items brushing their teeth will seem more fun than chore. Teach them the best way to get clean teeth through brushing and flossing.

Children under six need adult supervision when brushing their teeth. Caregivers should start by brushing the child’s teeth as a teaching tool. Then as the child gets older they will brush their own teeth. Show them to move the toothbrush circularly over the teeth. Strive to clean each tooth either starting from the back to the front or top to bottom. It just depends on what is easiest. Next brush the chewing parts of each tooth as well as the inside of the teeth. Don’t forget to brush the tongue then have them rinse out their mouth using water. When the teeth have been washed then ask the child how their teeth feel. They can rub their fingers or tongue over their teeth to feel it. If the teeth don’t feel clean then they need to brush again. When they enjoy the process then they won’t need a caregiver to watch over them at each brushing.