Parent's Guide to Teaching Kids How to Brush Their Teeth

In the bustling realm of parenthood, one of the daily challenges is instilling healthy habits in our little ones. Among these, teaching kids the importance of proper oral hygiene is a cornerstone for a lifetime of well-being. In this insightful interview, we turn to the expertise of Dr. Kayla Toh, a dedicated professional awarded the IFDEA Medal for being the best student in Paediatric Dentistry when she studying at the National University of Singapore. Dr. Toh has worked at multiple public institutions, accumulating more than a decade of experience and now she cares enjoys for families at An Dental clinic.

She delves into the intricacies of dental care, peering into people’s mouths and crafting beautiful smiles as a living. As a mother of two wonderful kids, Kayla understands the delicate balance between imparting essential life skills and making the learning process enjoyable for parents and kids. Now, she graciously shares her insights with “Busy.Kids” and responds to parents’ burning questions about cultivating good dental habits in their children.

Busy.Kids: ‘What age should parents start bringing their children for their first dental visit, and what can they expect during that initial appointment?’

Dr. Toh: ‘You should bring your child to see a dentist before he or she turns one year old or as soon as his or her first tooth erupts. The first visit is usually a short introduction for your child and is mainly for understanding his or her oral habits. We will usually ask parents questions and be able to advise accordingly. We will also try to carry out an oral examination for your child or even some cleaning, depending on your child’s age and level of cooperation.’

Busy.Kids: ‘What are the key factors contributing to healthy tooth development in young children?’

Dr. Toh: ‘There are five points:

Oral hygiene: brushing, type of toothpaste, flossing
Diet, milk intake
Regular dental visits
Avoid prolonged pacifier usage or thumb-sucking habits
Genetic factors.’

Busy.Kids: ‘Are there specific oral hygiene practices parents should follow for infants and toddlers, even before the first tooth eruption?’

Dr. Toh: ‘Definitely. We encourage parents to practice good oral hygiene habits to let their babies get used to the routine. Even before any teeth erupt, clean your baby’s gums after feeding, especially before bedtime. A soft, clean cloth or gauze pad with boiled, lukewarm water will be good. Gently wipe the gums, cheeks, palate, and tongue to remove any residue.’

Busy.Kids: ‘What toothbrush and toothpaste do parents have to choose for infants and toddlers?’

Dr. Toh: ‘When choosing your child’s toothbrush, soft-bristled toothbrushes with a small brush head will be good. Bristles should be soft and comfortable for you to brush along your child’s gums. You should check that the size suits your child’s age and the size of his or her mouth. You can also make brushing fun and enjoyable by getting one with his or her favorite color or cartoon character. For toothpaste, you can start using fluoridated toothpaste (1000 ppm) once his or her first tooth erupts for protection against tooth decay. However, the amount should be well controlled to prevent future fluorosis.

Always check the fluoride content of the kids’ toothpaste to ensure it is age-appropriate. For children below 7 years old, 1000 ppm fluoridated toothpaste is the ideal.’

Busy.Kids: ‘How often should we care for our infants’ and toddlers’ teeth?’

Dr. Toh: ‘Ideally, I would say after each meal, but as a mother of two myself, twice daily is good enough. The most crucial time to care for their teeth is before bedtime, as the bacteria that can cause decay are most active at night when they sleep.’

Busy.Kids: ‘Can you guide young children on proper tooth brushing techniques, and when should parents start teaching them to brush their teeth?’

Dr. Toh: ‘Certainly! Adults will need to brush young children below 7 years old, as they do not yet have the skill to brush their teeth. You can let them brush on their own first, but please supervise and thoroughly clean until they can do it effectively.

Ensure that you use age-appropriate soft-bristled toothbrushes with a small brush head and the right amount of fluoridated toothpaste for your child. Get into a comfortable position for both you and your child; you should be able to see his or her mouth. Brush in small circular motions.’

Busy.Kids: ‘In what ways can parents foster good oral hygiene habits in their children and make dental care a routine part of their daily lives, making kids and parents happy?’

Dr. Toh: ‘There are four points:

Make it fun. Sing a song, use a timer, or make up a fun toothbrushing routine to make the experience enjoyable.
Be consistent. Establish a routine by brushing your child’s teeth at least twice a day, preferably in the morning and before bedtime.
Model the proper technique. Demonstrate the correct brushing technique for your child to imitate. Use positive reinforcement to encourage them.
Let them choose their toothbrush. Allow your child to pick their favorite colors or characters with their toothbrush. This can make the process more enjoyable for them.

We thank Dr. Kayla Toh for sharing helpful tips on teaching kids to brush their teeth. For more insights, check out Dr. Kayla’s page. Let’s prioritize our children’s oral health together!