Posted on March 30th, 2016 Show My Toddler Won’t Let Me Brush Her Teeth! What Can I Do? Your toddler and her teeth – how can you brush them without a battle? This is one of the questions we get asked most often. Toddlers are not known for being the most cooperative of creatures, especially when it comes to things they don’t understand or don’t want to do. We can empathize – truly. Dr. Kucera has a toddler. They are at once adorable and intractable. So what is
a parent to do when faced with a toddler with jaws that are locked, or one who is screaming at the top of his lungs? Here are a few suggestions:
Everything with toddlers takes longer – getting dressed, mealtime, travelling, and brushing teeth. Understand this and be persistent – there is no choice if you want your child to have healthy teeth and gums for life. By the time your child has reached 5 or 6, he can usually brush independently, although he may not yet have the fine motor skills necessary to floss properly. He’ll need you to check often to be certain he isn’t missing any key areas. Most importantly, bring your toddler in for regular visits to the Pediatric Dentist. We can often help with ideas or suggestions for getting your toddler to be happier about having good oral health habits! When Should a toddler be able to brush their own teeth?Your child can learn how to brush his or her own teeth at about 3 years of age and should be brushing his or her own teeth morning and night by age 4. Parents should supervise and check for proper cleaning. By 8 years of age, your child will probably no longer need your help.
Should 2 year old brush their teeth?Starting at the age of two, you should begin brushing your child's teeth twice per day. Use a soft-bristled baby toothbrush, and a small amount of toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice.
How do you get a 2 year old to let you brush their teeth?Bring in a favorite stuffed animal or doll, and let your child “brush” the toy's teeth (without toothpaste, of course) while you brush your child's teeth. Play some music while brushing. Turn on a fun song that lasts about two minutes, and let your child know that when the song is done, it will be time to rinse.
When should a child independently brush their teeth?Children aged 7 and over should be able to brush their own teeth, but it's still a good idea to watch them to make sure they brush properly and for about 2 minutes.
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