First teeth are a new experience for both them and you. The best thing to remember is the importance of keeping teeth clean from the very first day you can see them.
- Clean all surfaces of each tooth, right up to the gum line, with a gentle circular motion. When your child has a full mouth of 20 milk teeth you can brush for 2 minutes - that's 6 seconds per tooth.
- Sit them on your lap - it's so much easier and it helps to stop the wriggling.
- The first thing to remember is to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of children's fluoride toothpaste - a smear is all you need up to 3 years of age.
- Talk to them and explain what you're doing. Although they might not understand properly, the reassurance of your voice will let them know that it is just another of life's new experiences to enjoy.
- Tilt their head up a little and get them to open wide. Pretending to be a animal and making a game out of it will help.
- Always make sure the child spits out the toothpaste and doesn't rinse with water after brushing - this lets fluoride continue to work.
