We prioritize preventive care for our young patients at Clifton & Mauney Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry in Chapel Hill, North Carolinapreventive care. We understand that brushing toddler teeth can come with challenges, and we want to provide guidance to help make it easier for parents. With 20+ years of experience, our team has seen it all in pediatric dentistry. Contact our team today at 888.339.8108 to learn more about early orthodontic treatment and tools like soft-bristled baby toothbrushes or specially designed child toothbrushes.
Why Do Parents Need Help When Brushing Toddler Teeth?
While many parents are diligent about brushing their children’s teeth, it can be challenging to get toddlers to cooperate. Parents may struggle to brush their child’s teeth or deal with tantrums and resistance. Parents need to stay committed to brushing their toddler’s teeth, as this can prevent cavities and other dental issues later in life.
As a dual practice focused on orthodontics and pediatric dentistry, we firmly believe in the power of preventive care, and brushing toddler teeth is a crucial part of that. Preventive care can save parents time and money by helping ward off serious dental problems in the future.
5 Tips for Brushing Toddler Teeth
While training your toddler to brush their teeth can be difficult, parents can implement a few tips to make the process easier. Follow these simple guidelines to help you and your toddler get through brushing teeth more smoothly.
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Use a Soft-Bristled Baby Toothbrush
These toothbrushes have gentle bristles that are designed specifically for infants and toddlers. They are often:
- Smaller
- Soft
- Colorful
These toothbrushes are often easier to maneuver in a child’s mouth and make toothbrushing fun for them.
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Use a Pea-Sized Amount of Toothpaste
While using toothpaste to clean teeth is essential, too much can harm a toddler’s developing teeth. Fluoride in toothpaste can contribute to fluorosis, the discoloration or streaking of teeth enamel. A pea-sized amount is enough to clean the teeth effectively and prevent fluorosis or excess swallowing.
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Make Brushing Fun
Singing a song or playing a game can help distract toddlers from the task and make brushing more enjoyable. Parents can also let their child pick out their toothbrush or toothpaste to make the activity more exciting.
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Brush Twice a Day
Consistency is vital when it comes to brushing toddler teeth. Parents should aim to brush their child’s teeth twice daily, once in the morning and once before bedtime. If parents cannot brush their child’s teeth at night, they should at least rinse them with water to remove any residue from the food.
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Use a Child Toothbrush
The difference between a baby toothbrush and a child’s toothbrush is the size of the bristles. As children get older, their teeth may need more scrubbing, and a child toothbrush with longer and firmer bristles can help get the job done. As your toddler ages, it is crucial to use the proper and age-appropriate tools to encourage them to care for their oral health.
Take Care of Your Child’s Oral Health with the Help of Clifton & Mauney Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry
At Clifton & Mauney Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, we know that brushing toddler teeth can be challenging. But with the right tools and approach, parents can ensure their child’s teeth stay healthy and strong. Preventive care is vital, and setting these habits early can significantly affect your child’s oral health. If you’re looking for a dental practice that prioritizes compassionate and inclusive care, we invite you to call 888.339.8108 and schedule an appointment with our team today.
