Brush the Smart Way

As a parent, you are the most important role model for your child. Help your child develop proper brushing techniques by setting a good example with your own oral health.

Techniques

• Brush at least twice a day with a pea-size amount of adult fluoride.
• Use a soft nylon bristle brush with a small compact head.
• Place the brush at a 45 degree angle to the tooth and use a gentle scrubbing technique.
• Brush the outer, the inner, and the biting surface of each tooth, including the part close to the gum line.
• Use the front tip of the brush for the inner surface of the front teeth.
• Encourage your child to brush for at lest 2 minutes each time they clean their teeth.
• Children under 7 will need help from and adult when cleaning their teeth.
• For babies wipe gums with a soft cloth or gauze from the pharmacy and water in areas where the teeth have not yet appeared.