For expectant mothers, they think of their little one’s safety, comfort, and wellness as a top priority. Their baby’s food, utensils, bottles, diapers, and other needs are well thought of. Aside from all these, we at Chesterfield Hilltown Dental believe that there is one thing that every parent should keep in mind for their child’s overall wellness – their oral health.

Before a tooth erupts, parents are advised to keep their child’s mouth clean using a clean, soft, and damp cloth by wiping the gums. As soon as a tooth erupts, a small-headed toothbrush should then be used.

We understand that it may be hard to teach young ones something new, especially since they do not know about its importance yet. So, to make it easier for parents, we prepared some tips!

Tips to Make Brushing More Interesting for Babies

Set the mood

Try to play peekaboo to distract and lighten their mood while brushing their teeth.

Use their favorite toy

Get a separate toothbrush to let them clean their toy’s teeth at the same time as theirs. It can serve as a practice for them as well until they are already old enough to brush their own teeth.

Use music

Play or sing a song to make brushing more enjoyable for the little ones. Choosing a music that lasts for two minutes is best since it is the ideal duration to clean their mouths effectively.

Give them a responsibility

Allow the child to hold their cup or squeeze the toothpaste. Letting them take part in this habit can make them feel independent about the activity that they initially thought was boring.

Make them feel like a grown-up

As much as possible, brush at the same time as the child. Since they love to copy what adults do, children will be more than willing to make it a habit with their parents. To make it even better, parents should set as an excellent example by performing the techniques exactly as they teach it. Staying enthusiastic during the whole process helps as well.

Quick tips

• Choose a small, soft-bristled toothbrush that is sure to fit their mouth comfortably. Letting them choose the one they want to use may help make them look forward to brushing sessions more.

• Pick a toothpaste with fluoride content since it helps protect the teeth against the attack of acids and other harmful substances. There are several flavors of toothpaste available so going with their favorite is better.

• Use a timer and set it to two minutes to signal the correct duration.

Aside from all these tips to be performed at home, do not forget to bring the child to the dentist as soon as the first tooth erupts and no later than their birthday. This practice should then be observed every six months so that our dentist can provide the services we offer under our pediatric dentistry services. Parents are assured that their little one’s oral health is in good hands with the help of sealants, fluoride applications, restorative services, and emergency dentistry!