Saskatoon Dental Group is a locally owned, full-scale Saskatoon dental clinic offering general dentistry services. Consulting your Saskatoon Dental Group dentist can provide personalized recommendations based on an individual’s unique oral health situation. Do you know that by the age of two, you can start teaching your child about the importance of oral hygiene and the best practices? In this blog, we will review how to teach kids to hold a toothbrush.
How to Teach Kids to Hold A Toothbrush:
Why is it Important?
Establishing good oral hygiene habits from a young age sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Teaching kids to use a toothbrush early on not only prevents cavities and gum disease but also instills a sense of responsibility for their well-being.
Choose the Right Tools:
Start by selecting a toothbrush designed for kids. Opt for soft bristles to avoid irritation and a small head that fits comfortably in their mouth. Allow your child to pick out a toothbrush with their favourite colour or character to make the experience more enjoyable.
Lead by Example:
Children learn by watching. Brush your teeth alongside them, demonstrating the proper technique. Use this time to bond, making toothbrushing a fun and shared activity.
Make it a Routine:
Consistency is key. Establish a regular toothbrushing routine, preferably after breakfast and before bedtime. Creating a schedule helps children understand the importance of daily dental care.
When Teaching Your Kid To Use A Toothbrush, Use the Right Amount of Toothpaste:
For children under three, use a smear of fluoride toothpaste, and for those aged three to six, a pea-sized amount is sufficient. Emphasize the importance of not swallowing the toothpaste and spitting it out instead.
Proper Brushing Technique:
Teach your child the correct brushing technique. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gums, moving it back and forth in short, gentle strokes. Don’t forget to brush the tongue and the roof of the mouth to eliminate bacteria.
Turn it Into a Game:
To make toothbrushing more engaging, turn it into a game. Challenge your child to brush for a full two minutes, using a timer or a fun song. You can also create a reward system to motivate them.
Monitor and Supervise:
Until your child is around seven or eight years old, it’s essential to supervise their toothbrushing sessions. This ensures they are using the correct technique and reaching all areas of their mouth.
Regular Dental Check-ups:
Schedule regular dental check-ups for your child. This not only helps in detecting and preventing dental issues but also makes them more aware of the importance of dental health.
Following the above steps will help teach your child on to hold a toothbrush. Remember, your dental team is there to support you and your family, and if you ever have any questions about you or your children’s dental hygiene, call or book in for an apppointemnt today and our trusted team will be happy to help.
Click Here to Read our other articles about good dental habits
Book your appointment today! Saskatoon Dental Group is always welcoming patients looking for a new dental family. If you would like to book a checkup or have any dental questions please do not hesitate to contact our team.
See you soon!
The Saskatoon Dental Group Team
