How to Brush Your Teeth: For Kids

How to Brush Your teeth, Kid’s Teeth: Step-by-Step Instructions

As I said above, I urge parents to focus more on making brushing a habit rather than obsessing over a perfect clean.

So, let’s say you’ve got that first part down pat. Your baby or child is brushing on his/her own and expects brushing time as part of the routine, 2-3 times per day. They brush first, and then it’s your turn to get in there and brush their teeth thoroughly.

But…how do you do that part, exactly?

Gentle, gentle, gentle

Many adults think their teeth aren’t clean without a firm, strong brush. Actually, that’s a misconception! Gentle is better for teeth of all ages. You’ll get your kids’ teeth clean if you’re very gentle, without risking creating tiny abrasions on teeth that can play home to acid-causing bacteria that lead to cavities.

Plus, they’ll let you brush for longer!

Pinch the handle between two fingers to ensure a light grip.

Use a wiggle motion, not back and forth

Think tiny circles, or little wiggles that mimic what an electric toothbrush would do (not back and forth).

Aim for the gums

Aim for the gums at a 45 degree angle down from and up into the gums.

Focus on brushing three surfaces

Aim to get all three surfaces of the 3D structure of the tooth: outer, inner, and chewing surfaces.

How to brush with an electric brush:

The same technique applies, with some important changes:

1. Still cover inner, outer, and chewing surfaces, and don’t wiggle or go back and forth. Just let the brush’s motion do its thing, holding the brush at a 45 angle with the gums
2. Apply gentle pressure, make sure not to bend the bristles.
3. Make sure bristles are at least half on teeth.