Mummy, why should I brush my teeth?

Mummy, why should I brush my teeth?

by | Mar 7, 2017 | Teeth Care

Good oral hygiene starts right at the beginning, because when it comes to looking after your teeth, good habits are lifelong habits. At Pain Free Dental Clinic, we help children and adults learn how to brush my teeth properly, ensuring healthy smiles across Moss Vale, Mittagong, Bowral, and the Southern Highlands.

Which toothbrush?

When you browse the supermarket aisle, you’ll notice one thing – there are so many toothbrushes! But it’s crucial to get the right one for your child.

  • Babies: Even before they have teeth, the gentlest small-headed, soft-bristled toothbrushes can be used.
  • Two years: A toddler toothbrush is small, soft, and easy to hold to encourage children to have a go. Parents should still ensure teeth are being cleaned properly. Learn more about pain free dentistry for toddlers.
  • Five to eight years: By this age, children can start brushing alone (with supervision), but it’s important the brush is size-appropriate. Fun shapes, colours, and novelties can make brushing enjoyable. Our pain free dentist team can recommend the best brushes for your child.
  • Eight and up: Kids should be brushing independently now, using brushes similar to adults’ but slightly smaller, with grips that suit their hands.

Once a brush is visibly frayed, or after three or four months, it’s time for a new one. Our Moss Vale Dental Clinic team recommends regularly updating your toothbrush to maintain painfree dentistry habits.

What toothpaste?

Choosing the right toothpaste can feel overwhelming. Children’s toothpaste still contains fluoride, usually in smaller amounts, and is safer if swallowed accidentally. Gels are gentle on young enamel and taste better for kids. Learn why fluoride is safe for kids and essential for oral health.

At Pain Free Dental Clinic in Moss Vale, we can guide you on selecting toothpaste that supports long-term oral health while making pain free dentistry enjoyable for children.

How to brush?

Telling your child to brush however they like often leads to missed spots, which is why teaching proper technique is essential. Learning to brush my teeth correctly removes plaque, fights bacteria, and keeps breath fresh.

  • Short strokes: Brush in back-and-forth motions, starting at the gumline.
  • 45-degree angle: Every tooth matters – top, bottom, front, and back.
  • Be patient: Brushing takes at least two minutes. Speed and pressure don’t replace thorough care.

Our pain free dentist team in Moss Vale, Mittagong, and Bowral is here to show kids and adults how to brush my teeth effectively, making dental visits stress-free and comfortable.

For more tips on maintaining oral health, check out our guides on gum care, teeth scaling, and dental implants.


Contact us for your child’s appointment and check up
(02) 4868 1933

Get Your Kids To Brush & Floss More With This Simple Checklist

smile chart

Click “Get Checklist” below to download your copy of this fun checklist.

Bring completed checklists to your child’s next cleaning and get a special prize.

🙂 No email required. Just click below to access

green toothbrush with toothpaste

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: At what age should my child start brushing their teeth?


A: Children can start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears. Use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and guide them until they can brush properly on their own, usually around age 5–8.

Q2: How do I teach my child to brush their teeth properly?


A: Teach your child to brush at a 45-degree angle, using short strokes from the gumline to the tooth tip. Make sure they brush all surfaces front, back, top, and bottom for at least two minutes.

Q3: What toothpaste should I use for my child?


A: Use a child-friendly toothpaste containing fluoride in safe amounts. Gel toothpastes are gentle on enamel and taste better for kids. Always supervise brushing to avoid swallowing.

Q4: How often should I replace my child’s toothbrush?


A: Replace your child’s toothbrush every 3–4 months or sooner if the bristles become frayed. A worn toothbrush cannot clean teeth effectively.

Q5: Where can I find a pain-free dentist near me in Moss Vale or the Southern Highlands?


A: Visit Pain Free Dental Clinic in Moss Vale, Mittagong, or Bowral for stress-free, child-friendly dental care. Our team specializes in teaching kids how to brush properly while providing gentle, pain-free dentistry.

 

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Pain Free Dental Clinic