![]() 6 To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, they should tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes. 5 In general, the American Dental Association suggests that people place the toothbrush against the gumline at a 45-degree angle to remove plaque from above and just below the gingival margin, and move the toothbrush gently back and forth in short strokes. ![]() There are a number of techniques for brushing teeth any of which may have advantages depending on a patient’s particular needs. Brushing for two minutes has been shown to achieve clinically significant plaque removal 3 and use of a toothpaste containing fluoride enhances fluoride concentration levels in biofilm fluid and saliva, and is associated with decreased risk of caries and remineralization of teeth. The American Dental Association recommends brushing teeth twice a day for two minutes using a fluoride toothpaste. Children should be assisted by or supervised by an adult and should be instructed to spit the excess toothpaste out after brushing. Once children are 3 years or older, they can use a pea-sized drop of fluoridated toothpaste. 2 As children become more coordinated with age, they should be able to brush their own teeth under adult supervision, continuing to use a child-sized toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles.Ĭhildren younger than 3 years should use a smear of fluoridated toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. The toothbrush should have soft bristles and a head small enough to easily maneuver inside the child’s mouth, reaching all tooth surfaces. Generally, caregivers should brush an infant’s teeth twice a day, using a child-sized toothbrush. 1, 2Ĭaregivers should follow instructions from their child’s dentist. ![]() Therefore, the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry agree that brushing should begin as soon as the first tooth erupts. As soon as primary teeth start to erupt, which may be as early as 6 months of age, they are at risk of tooth decay.
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