Brushing toddlers teeth

How long does your toodler (around 20 months or so) let you brush their teeth?

Sidney has a full set of teeth and it is such a struggle lately to brush her teeth. I can barley get in there. She brushes a little herself but its more like she is sucking and biting the tooth brush.

My family has horrible teeth problems and I just want to give this kid a fighting chance.
TIA

Re: Brushing toddlers teeth

First of all you need to be commended for trying, some parents give up when their kids do as much as struggle a little.

The best way to brush your child's teeth is to stand behind them, in front of mirror, so that they can see what you are doing too, and hold their head with one hand/arm and brush with the other. You may need to be slightly forceful, but REMEMBER you are not doing any harm - you are doing what is in their best interest.

Then next trick is to let them do it after. Sometimes it works to ask them if they want to go before mommy or after mommy.

It is really good to get your kids into good habits early.

Any other questions - please feel free to ask -

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Re: Brushing toddlers teeth

Re: Brushing toddlers teeth

Posted by smiledoc


Any other questions - please feel free to ask -

My standard fees don't apply on LIW

Re: Brushing toddlers teeth

Posted by MommaG

I know what you mean. Jesse is 21 months and usually clamps his mouth shut when I try to brush. I've tried everything and usually it just depends on his mood. I've found that if he's really tired it's more difficult. We made up a song to sing to him (very simple - just "brush-a brush-a brush your teeth" over and over) and sometimes that helps - it makes it more fun.

Wish I had more ideas for you but we're in the same boat.