Normally, children start teething from around 6-12 months and as soon as the first tooth shows up, oral hygiene should follow. Wondering how to do it ‘the right way’? Then this article is for you. Here's a little regimen for your child’s oral care that he will hopefully embrace as he grows older.
In the early months especially from 6-12 months it’s wise to use a soft, clean wash cloth with a toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice to clean the growing teeth twice a day. A cloth is recommended at this age as your child’s gums are still soft so even a baby toothbrush may bruise them.
It’s recommended for a child (and parents too) to brush his/her teeth at least twice a day – when they wake up in the morning as well as in the evening after dinner, and before bed. However, it is important that your child rinses her mouth with water after every meal to remove food remains that cause plaque and an unpleasant smell. A quick, thorough rinse with water will boost the mouth’s natural ability to clean itself after meals.
As your child gets older, teach them how to brush in circular motion from gums to teeth – and don’t forget the tongue. Try to change your child’s toothbrush every 3-4 months, if the bristles start to wear out, or after a child has been sick.
NOTE: In order to be on the safe side, it’s important to make sure your child gets a balanced diet to allow development of healthy teeth and gums, avoiding sugary foods – cavities are real. Make sure that your child uses a fluoride toothpaste, and learns to spit out the toothpaste before rinsing with water.