Tips for brushing children's teeth is a major pain for many parents in France. If you've ever run after a toddler down the hallway, toothbrush in hand, screaming for them to come back and brush their teeth, you're not alone! We all know how crucial it is to maintain good dental hygiene, but how do you get your child to stick to the routine without making it a daily battle?
Toothbrushing Basics for Toddlers
Children under 3 years old
As soon as you see your baby's first tooth, it's time to start brushing. By this point, you're probably already an expert at it. Twice a day, you should guide your child for about 2 minutes, using a quality toothpaste with fluoride. A very small amount of toothpaste is enough, and be careful not to swallow it.
Children aged 3 to 6
Same routine: twice a day for 2 minutes with a good fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to always brush before bed. It is advisable to continue to supervise brushing at this age, as they only need a small amount of toothpaste. After brushing, do not rinse, let the fluoride work.
Top tips for brushing children's teeth to motivate little ones
Yes, brushing teeth can seem like a boring task to kids, but you can make it fun! Let your child choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste. Not sure what to choose? Ask your dentist or doctor for advice. Use a timer to stick to the two-minute brushing time, and if that works, brush together to set an example.
Be the brushing guide
By holding your child's hand while brushing, you can show them where to brush and help them reach difficult areas. Use a mirror so they can see their own teeth and understand the importance of brushing each part thoroughly.
First visits to the dentist
In France, visits to the dentist are free for children. As soon as the first teeth appear, make an appointment to accustom your child to the dental office environment and show that it is not scary. Regular visits also help prevent future problems.
Limit sugar
The best advice for brushing teeth for children, apart from dental hygiene, is to reduce sugar consumption. Replace sugary drinks, sweets and biscuits with salty snacks. It is also recommended to switch from bottles to cups after 18 months to reduce the risk of cavities.
Children's teeth brushing tips: Make the routine fun
It's not always easy to instill good dental habits, but with a little creativity, you can turn your brushing routine into an enjoyable experience. Here are some ideas to help you do just that:
- Sing a song : Create a special teeth brushing song that you sing together during those crucial two minutes.
- Use fun apps : There are several apps designed to help children brush their teeth properly. These apps can be a great way to make the process fun and educational.
- Awards : Set up a reward system to encourage your child to brush their teeth without resisting. For example, a tracking chart with stickers for each successful brushing.
When to worry about your child's dental development?
Most children have their full set of baby teeth by age 3. However, don't worry if it takes longer or if the teeth appear earlier. If you have any concerns, talk to your dentist, doctor, or pediatrician. They can give you advice specific to your child's situation.
Conclusion: Healthy dental habits from an early age
THE children's teeth brushing tips are essential to ensuring good oral health throughout life. By incorporating these practices from the very first teeth, you give your child the best chance of having healthy, strong teeth. Remember that prevention is always better than treatment, and good dental hygiene starts with simple actions at home.
In applying these children's teeth brushing tips, you can not only help your child develop a dental care routine, but you can also turn what is often seen as a chore into a fun and rewarding activity. So, grab your child’s favorite toothbrush, implement these tips, and make brushing teeth a time your little one will look forward to every day!
If you live in France, you can read about:
The Awakening artistic and cultural young children.
Our special Advent calendar:
You can also consult our advent calendar special designed especially for new mothers.
