How to Brush Children's Teeth

Good dental health is essential to prevent decay, infections and tooth loss. Until your child is 7 or 8 years old, you or another adult should brush your child's teeth for her. You should do this at least two times a day -- after breakfast and before bed. Knowing the proper way to brush her teeth, however, teaches her a valuable life-long skill that she will surely appreciate when she is older and feels secure and proud showing off her pearly whites.

Things You'll Need

  • Washcloth
  • Child-size toothbrush
  • Toothpaste

Instructions

    • 1

      Wrap a moist, soft washcloth around your finger and rub the teeth and gums. This method is appropriate for babies. Ask your dentist when you should use a toothbrush. He might suggest waiting until your baby is two years old before making the switch.

    • 2

      Put a pea-size amount of toothpaste on a child-sized, soft-bristled toothbrush that has a small head. Do not use a paste with fluoride until your dentist gives the go ahead, which, according to WebMD's "Brushing and Flossing Children's Teeth," might not be until your child is 2 years old. He might suggest using just water in the meantime.

    • 3

      Rub the teeth in a back and forth motion for two or three minutes. Do not brush too hard, which can be painful and cause gum damage. Spend at least one to two minutes on the back molars. Get the bottoms, fronts and back of the teeth. Give the tongue a brushing, too.

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