How often should you brush your toddlers (or older) teeth? - Maternity.com Forums. Your Online Community for Parents and Expecting Parents.

jaescafe · #1 07-01-2006, 08:45 AM

Don't know if this belongs here, but it's is child care so I thought it would be okay.

I know I do not brush my kids (3 and 5) teeth as much as I should. I was wondering how often you brush your kids teeth? Do you do it or do they?

Amy · #2 07-02-2006, 06:01 AM

At three and five they still need your guidance. This is not a fun thing, but trust me - you want them to get god dentail hygience habits early. It will make all theidifference later when they have or don't have cavities, etc. ALso, their trips to the dentist will be better and later when it gets to braces, if needed, they really need to be familiart with taking good care of their teeth. Be diligent! It's worth it...

Melos · #3 07-02-2006, 07:16 AM

My kids (8 & 7) brush their teeth after breakfast and before bed. My 8 year old has it down pat, but I have to help the 7 year old still - he's autistic and oral sensetive - he doesn't like to open his mouth.

Definately keep after it. I didn't have good dental hygeine as a child and I'm paying for it now.

Sister · #4 07-02-2006, 08:31 AM

I brush my toddler's teeth twice a day. As soon as they have teeth you should try to brush them at least once a day. Don't just let them suck on the toothbrush, either. It's the brushing motion more than the toothpaste that helps fight cavities. Also, make sure you are using toothpaste that is safe for toddlers. Toothpaste that whitens teeth and whatnot is not appropriate for children.

Melos · #5 07-03-2006, 09:07 AM

That's something good to bring up Sister.

Children/toddlers that are prone to swallow toothpaste should have flouride free toothpaste, since it is toxic when ingested.

jaescafe · #6 07-04-2006, 02:26 PM

Thanks everyone. I am absolutely terrible in the summertime with brushing their teeth. If I get them done once a day I am doing great. I better get more strict lol.

feline · #7 07-05-2006, 02:09 AM

As soon as children knows how to brush their teeth properly, they must be able to do it by themselves. Another advice, teeth of infants should also be scrubbed as the remaining milk in the mouth, the residue that can't be washed up by water, they need to be rid of so that the baby will feel his/her gums cleaner.