Brushing a child's teeth

Brush your child's teeth twice a day using a small, soft brush with a dab of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a green pea. Brush your child's teeth from behind.

  • Kneel down behind your child and have him or her stand between your knees, facing away from you.
  • With one hand, gently press your child's head against your chest.
  • With the other hand, brush his or her teeth. You may also push away the upper and lower lips to make it easier to get to the teeth.
  • Pay special attention to where the teeth meet the gums.

Author: Jeannette CurtisLast Updated: May 22, 2007
Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Steven K. Patterson, BSc, DDS, MPH - Dentist

© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

Click here to learn about Healthwise