Toothbrushing Tips for Toddlers

Brushing toddler teeth can be a challenge, but it’s important to start practicing early to create routines that will lead to a lifetime of healthy smiles. Try these tips to make brushing easier at home!

Focus on the bedtime brushing

While brushing for 2 minutes twice daily is optimal, brushing once a day at bedtime for 20-30 seconds may be more realistic for families with little kids (and makes Dr. Pete super happy!). Bedtime brushing is important for removing plaque that has formed during the day and helps establish a nighttime routine that your toddler will expect before bed.

Morning brushing should be added to the routine by the time that kids begin preschool. Morning brushing makes fresh breath for teachers and friends!

Ditch the training toothpaste

Dr. Pete recommends toothpaste with fluoride as soon as baby teeth start coming in. The amount of toothpaste you use is very important, too! Not sure how much toothpaste you should use for toddlers? For kids under age 3, use a rice grain-sized smear. For kids age 3 and up, use a pea-sized smear. This amount is safe to swallow, so you won’t have to worry about upset tummies!

Take turns! Grown-ups go first

Letting grown-ups start the brushing can help make sure toddlers’ teeth are getting clean while also giving kids important practice. When grown-ups go first, we know that the toothpaste will actually hit the teeth (where it's most effective!). Then, kids get a turn second to brush which is great practice and indulges those independent urges your kids have.

Lay kids down to brush

Kids lay down when they get their teeth cleaned at dental visits, and this is how Dr. Pete recommends brushing at home too. There are two methods you can use to brush your toddler’s teeth:

• Two grown-up method:

  Lay your toddler down on a changing table. One grown-up is positioned at the child's head and is in charge of toothbrushing. The second grown-up is positioned at the child's side or feet and is in charge of holding the child's hands and distracting them. (Dr. Pete's wife says he is in charge of the toothbrushing at home because he is the dentist in the family.)

• One grown-up method:

Sit down on the floor with your legs out straight in front of you. Your toddler will lay between your legs with their head in your lap toward your body and their feet facing toward your feet. The child's arms go out to the sides underneath the grown-up's thighs. Toddlers may not happily adjust to this technique right away, but consistency is key, and it will become routine soon!

Is your kiddo due for a dental appointment? Request an appointment today for an enjoyable dental visit at Good Life Smiles!