Brushing teeth is a basic skill. We do it without thinking too much about when we actually started brushing our own teeth and before then how we had our teeth brushed for us?

Getting a toddler to accept this as a routine can be tricky if not frustrating. There’s just something most kids don’t like about having a brush in their mouths if it isn’t a game they are playing.

Our three year old does a pretty good job brushing her own teeth. Still, an adult must get involved to make sure it’s done properly each time. Also, toothbrushes are hazardous and adult supervision is absolutely necessary when children handle toothbrushes on their own.

I know too many parents who stress over when and how to introduce and create the acceptance of tooth brushing. So, here are a few tips that helped us make the experience a fun one!

1. Introducing a toothbrush

Children get a hang of things faster than we imagine. The earlier you introduce a toothbrush, the easier it will be when you need them to start using it purposefully. We introduced toothbrushes as soon as our girls could grab and put things in their mouths. At this point, actual teeth brushing isn’t a priority. It’s about letting them play with it alittle.This is just to get baby familiarized with this object that will be part of their grooming routine for life.

2. Choosing the right toothbrush

You can find kids toothbrushes for different ages in most supermarkets. They come in bright colours, and some have their favourite cartoon characters. Soft bristles are a must. Also, remember that there will be need to change their toothbrush severally in the year.

3. The right time to start actual brushing

So when is the right time to actually start brushing baby’s teeth? Like most things, the earlier you begin, the better. As soon as baby’s teeth start to come through their gums! Use, just a smear of toothpaste, nothing bigger than a grain of rice is all that is needed children below 3 years old. Not much toothbrushing happens at this point but it gets baby started towards good oral hygiene.

Again, choose age appropriate toothpaste. Children’s toothpastes are made with less fluoride and are available in flavours that will get your baby excited about tooth brushing?. When children are exposed to excess fluoride, they may develop Fluorosis, tiny white spots on on their teeth.

4. They learn best by watching you

Allow children to watch you at it. They learn best by seeing you do it. They will especially learn not just brushing technique but to rinse and spit (not very nice to even discuss i know??) by seeing you doing it. Tell them what you are doing as you do it.

5. Tooth brushing songs and videos

There are lots of resourceful kids videos on YouTube that teach them about teeth brushing in a fun and exciting way! Sing these songs with them during tooth brushing time!

6. Consistency

As soon as you begin to brush baby’s teeth, make it routine. Once in the morning and once at night. This way, they learn that this is something must be done twice a day, everyday and they generally get used to having a brush in their mouth. They will soon start to remind you when they think you have forgotten that it’s time to brush teeth!

7. Patience

Like all other life skills that we impart on kids as they grow….Patience! Patience! Patience! Sometimes they just don’t want their teeth brushed or take a while to get the hang of it. It is okay… enjoy the process❤