How did you start using a toothbrush with your child?
Ive been using the Gerber rubber finger thingie and paste for awhile and its always a huge struggle with Luke, he hates it. I have no idea if he will even take to a toothbrush, I cant imagine he will but Im looking for advice on when and how you got them using the toothbrush. Of course, not brushing by himself but how do you get him to open his mouth?
kptoys
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Re: Moms of toddlers: tooth brushing question
I just make sure Emma sees me brushing and that its fun. I bought her her own kiddy sized brush. I dont put anything on it. I let her brush her teeth while looking in the mirror. Its fun. I help her with the brushing. Then we celebrate!
Victoria
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Re: Moms of toddlers: tooth brushing question
Take him to the store to let him pick out his new 'big boy toothbrush'. I bought Annalise one to replace the finger brush and she wants to take it everywhere. I also make sure she comes with me every morning while I brush. I use the toddler toothpaste w/o flouride. I quickly brush hers myself, and then I let her 'brush' while I brush my own teeth. I know she is only biting it most of the time, but she is already trying to mimmick my brush strokes.
Claud2001
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Re: Moms of toddlers: tooth brushing question
We brush twice a day - after lunch (before naptime) and before bedtime. Like Victoria, I brush Paul's teeth first, and then give him a chance to do it himself. I think it helps him to get used to how the toothbrush feels in his mouth, and makes him less 'afraid' of it.
Paul has already been to the dentist for his first cleaning, and that was a supreme struggle! But, the dentist assured me that if he cries and screams, it only makes my job easier b/c screaming = WIDE OPEN MOUTH (perfect for brushing!)
Also, during Paul's bedtime routine, we let him lie in one of our laps (you could use the bed or couch if Derek isn't home), with his head tilted back. This makes it easier for his mouth to hang open and then you can see what you're doing better.
elle
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Re: Moms of toddlers: tooth brushing question
we do the same thing as Victoria-- Aidan uses the toddler tooth brush with toothpast without flouride. He loves it -- I brush his teeth quick -- then he gets to brush them himself. He wants to brush them every time he is in the bathroom !
Kaycee0921
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Re: Moms of toddlers: tooth brushing question
I guess we were very lucky - both boys LOVE to have their teeth brushed. (Ryan actually opens his mouth as soon as we go in the bathroom!) I do it 2x a day (after lunch and before bed). They lost interest in doing it themselves quickly. As long as they can watch themselves in the mirror they love it. I use a baby toothbrush with baby tooth paste.
