WHEN DO YOU START BRUSHING BABIES’ TEETH WITH TOOTHPASTE

There are a number of theories about the best way to brush your baby’s teeth.

The important thing is to keep it simple, keep it fun and get into a regular routine.

Your child’s experiences with brushing now will shape their relationship with their oral health for the rest of their life.

The “milk” teeth usually start to come through around the age of 6 months. In most cases, all 20 of these baby teeth will have come through by the time your child is two-and-a-half years old.

What age should a baby start brushing their teeth?

You should start brushing as soon as their teeth start to appear.

How should I brush my baby’s teeth?

Try sitting behind your child and gently holding their chin with one hand while brushing with the other – this should help you to easily reach all their teeth.

Use a small blob of toothpaste on a baby toothbrush.

Brushing in small circles, try to gently clean every surface of the tooth as well as the gums around it.

Looking after your baby's teeth

When they are old enough, encourage them to spit the toothpaste out after brushing.

Because it’s good for the fluoride from the toothpaste to stay on their teeth longer, there’s no need to rinse.

Brush before bed and at one other time during the day.

HOW TO BRUSH BABY'S TEETH WHEN THEY REFUSE

Realistically, it may be tricky to thoroughly brush at first but it’s really important to begin to establish the routine.

Some children will take to this naturally but others will be resistant.

Remain patient, keep things fun and make sure you offer plenty of praise and encouragement.

BEST BABY TOOTHBRUSH

It’s important to select a baby toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles that is specially designed for babies.

There are many colourful, fun toothbrushes available to keep them motivated!

You will notice that baby’s like to chew the bristles so you will need to replace their toothbrush every month or so.

Best baby toothpaste

Again, choose a mild fluoride toothpaste made for children –  adult toothpastes will generally taste too strong and contain more fluoride.