top of page

Position

 

The correct postition makes brushing so much easier.  Make sure you position yourself so that your child can't wiggle much and you have a free hand to pull back the lip or cheek.

Dentist with Child Patient

Position yourself behind your child 

  • get down on one knee if you to 

  • tilt your child's head up

  • cradle your child's head in your am

  • use your free hand to pull back the lip or cheek

​

​

**  For older kids, sit down and have your child sit in front of you with their head tilted up.

Dentist with Patient

Brushing Technique - "Lift the lip"

 

  • Though it's important to brush all surface of all teeth, areas which need special attention in kids are:

    • gumline of upper front teeth ​

    • chewing surface of molars

  • To access these areas, use your free hand to lift the lip as shown.

  • Use back and forth or circular brushing stokes.

​

​

Brushing teeth
Brushing teeth

Flossing 

​​

  • You can use same postiion as brushing but also consider: 

    • ​​​If your child is lying down, it is easier to see and he/she cannot wiggle as much.

    • Keep some floss next to the bed and floss when you tuck your child in.​​

​

Hygenist

How to motivate your child to brush

​​

  • Sing the ABC's three times

  • Use an hourglass sand timer/egg timer

  • Use a sticker chart or reward calendar​

  • Brush while your child is distracted with book or TV show (if you're not in bathroom, just use a little water so its not messy and then smear a little toothpaste of before bed)

  • Remind him or her that Dr Lunken expects brushing every morning and every night.  

  • Even if your child cries, remind yourself that brushing and flossing is not hurting and you are truly helping your child stay healthy and free from pain adn infection.

bottom of page