What is the best way to clean my child’s teeth?
Young children are not able to clean their own teeth. As a parent, you must do it for them when they are very young and do it with them, as they get older. When your child can tie his or her own shoes, your child is ready to do a good job brushing. You should check to make sure your child does a good job. You should start cleaning your child’s mouth even before your child has teeth. It gets both you and your child into the habit of keeping the mouth clean, and it gives baby (or primary) teeth a clean place to come into. The goal is to wipe all parts of the gums and teeth. Here’s how to do it: • Lay your baby in a comfortable place. • Make sure you can see into your baby’s mouth. • Use a soft baby brush or wrap your finger in a clean, damp washcloth. Then, brush or wipe your baby’s gums and teeth. • Do not use toothpaste until your child has teeth.
