Oral Health Care
When should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?Even if your child’s mouth only has one tooth and he or she has had baby food, breast milk or solid food, we recommend cleaning off the remnants with a damp cloth or gauze.
How should I brush my child’s teeth?It is very important to get your child brushing his or her teeth at this age. Children usually brush only the visible or easy-to-reach surfaces and don’t brush the gaps or chewing surfaces very well. For this reason, we recommend that children brush with parental supervision, using a circular motion to reach gaps and chewing surfaces.
What kind of toothbrush should I get for my child?Children should use a brush that has soft, nylon bristles and is a size appropriate for his or her mouth. For hygienic reasons the brush should be changed once every six months.
What kind of toothpaste should be used for babies and children? How much should be used?Toothpaste is not recommended for children under the age of three. The swallowing reflex is fully acquired after the age of four. If children use fluoride toothpaste before this age, permanent stains may appear on the teeth as a result of continuously swallowing the toothpaste. This phenomenon is known fluorosis. For this reason, fluoride toothpaste should not be used until after age three. Even then, only a lentil-sized amount is recommended.
How many times should I make my child brush his or her teeth per day?As the habit of brushing teeth is acquired during childhood, mothers and fathers are important role models. Therefore, parents should encourage their children to brush following breakfast and before going to bed.
