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Warmup
Warmup
Applying firm pressure to the cheeks, lips, and gums before oral care can promote relaxation and decrease the tickling sensation many kids dislike
IMG_5812.movindependence
independence
Allow your child to be in control by assisting in shopping for a toothbrush, toothpaste flavor, and floss. Encourage independence in brushing, but remember to go behind them for thoroughness!
Electric toothbrushes
Electric toothbrushes
great option for children with limited fine motor skills
provide feedback (light or change in vibration) to correct brushing pressure
this feedback is important, because pressing too hard can damage enamel
have built-in timers
visual timers
visual timers
Timers provide a visual for brushing duration and assist with the transition from flossing to brushing. You can use a 2-minute sand timer from a board game box, purchase a turtle with timed lights corresponding to each quadrant of the mouth, or check out these free online timers:
reinforcement and contingency
reinforcement and contingency
send your child a note from the tooth fairy informing them that only clean teeth can be collected and rewarded
engage your child in a preferred activity or provide a reward immediately after oral care to create a positive association
use the phrasing "first _____, then _____" (e.g., first brush, then watch Bluey)
the activity or reward should not be something that would happen regardless of the child's participation in oral care - make it special!
plaque disclosing tablets provide a visual of the difference that tooth brushing makes
Dr. Gazdeck's sons demonstrating the ideal brushing position
Positioning to assist with oral care
Positioning to assist with oral care
The Ideal Position: Laying your child back
gives you the best view of all teeth
allows you to reach the molars, which are a common site for cavities due to their grooves and location
reduces the need to bend forward (prevents back injury)
Tips & Alternative Positions
use a beanbag chair or scoop rocker chair that provides full body support
provide foot support for your child when you lay them back (e.g., pushing into the wall or a sturdy book)
up to 20% of children experience gravitational insecurity, a sensory sensitivity that makes laying back or tilting the head back difficult
try positions that reduce the need to lay back fully (see photos below)
make sure you lift the child's lip so the toothbrush reaches the gumlines
Scoop rocker chairs provide full body support, which makes laying back more comfortable
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