I’m a dentist – what age to take kids for a checkup and how to teach them how to brush their teeth properly WITHOUT you having to
Teaching a child to brush their teeth can be a hassle for many, but there are ways to do it while having fun.
But the first sign of grinding also leads to another question: At what age should toddlers start seeing a dentist?
Dentist visits should begin as soon as baby teeth appear, Dr. Azad Eyrumlu of Banning Dental Group told Fabulous.
It’s been around six months, although it could happen sooner or later, he said.
“It’s never too early for children to get used to the idea of seeing a dentist,” he said, and thankfully NHS dental care for children is free.
“When a baby tooth appears, it’s the perfect time to schedule an appointment and start getting a child used to the sights and smells of a dental office,” he explained.
“It may even be that during the first appointments, the child becomes familiar with the waiting room.”
Often the first appointments do not mean “examining the tooth in detail”.
“We will take a look in the child’s mouth to check that everything is in order,” Dr Eyrumlu explained.
First dates are also a good time to talk to parents about important oral care tips.
When it comes to brushing your teeth at home, it can definitely be a chore.
But it’s important to establish a routine early, says Dr Khaled Kasem, chief orthodontist at leading European orthodontic chain Impress.
“After all, most dental problems in children are the result of poor dental hygiene,” he said.
“So if you stick to the following tips, your child will be brushing their teeth in no time.”
First of all, it is important to choose the right toothbrush for your child.
Dr. Eyrumlu recommends letting your child choose their own age-appropriate toothbrush and toothpaste – but within reason, of course.
“Using a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head is the best option for any young child, as any harshness or friction while brushing can cause a temper tantrum,” Dr. Kasem said.
And as with toothpaste, make sure it’s not too sweet or spicy, because “a lot of times kids will back off if it doesn’t quite taste good.”
Tips to help children brush their teeth
1. Find a time that works for you and stick to it
“Children need consistency to learn anything, so be sure to establish a routine,” Dr. Kasem explained.
“Whether it’s immediately after breakfast or bath time or right before you put them to bed, make brushing part of their regular schedule so they can get used to it.”
2. Keep it in the bathroom
“Try to make a habit of brushing your teeth in the bathroom and make sure you do the same,” he said.
“Children often mimic adult behavior and if they see you brushing your teeth somewhere else, chances are they’ll want to do the same.”
It’s also a good idea to brush your teeth at the same time, as it might make your child want to do it too.
3. Take your time and let them learn
Dr Eyrumlu said it was important to let children explore holding the toothbrush on their own.
“It’s hard to angle it properly to reach every tooth. You want to have the brush at a 45-degree angle to the teeth,” he said.
Dividing the mouth into four sections can help kids get it right. The upper half on the left, the upper half on the right, the lower half on the left and the lower half on the right.
4. Add a fun element
“Try to make brushing their teeth a fun activity rather than a chore, get them excited,” Dr Kasem said.
“Whether it’s making up a song or naming each tooth something silly while you brush it, keeping them engaged will generate excitement around everything.”
The toothbrush song Hey Dugee is a great example of this as it encourages children to brush their teeth for two minutes – the recommended time.
Another option is to use your child’s favorite toy.
“Let them ‘brush’ the toy’s teeth (without toothpaste),” Dr Kasem suggested.
“It will help them understand that this is a normal part of everyone’s routine, and not just a punishment for them.”
5. Use time
It is important to brush your teeth for two full minutes, or 30 seconds for each quarter of your mouth.
Dr. Eyrumlu suggests using a timer so children can see or hear the time for themselves.
“Encourage them to brush a quarter of their mouth, and when the time is up, they can move on to the next section,” he explained.
“Brush with them, doing your own teeth at the same time, enjoying the song.
“You can also try using a mirror so your child can see what he’s doing. “
6. Offer praise
Don’t forget to check your child’s mouth when he’s finished to make sure he’s done a good job.
“Then do lots of praise, high fives, whatever works,” Dr. Eyrumlu said.
“Bring the whole family to the experience if you can! It’s about making the routine a fun experience that they enjoy.”
A tantrum is inevitable at some point, especially when your child is tired.
“Make the process as routine as possible, but pick and choose your battles,” Dr Kasem said.
“At no time should you force your child as this will create more resistance, keep offering her the toothbrush and create as much fun around her as possible.”