What is the best way to keep my child’s teeth clean?
Brushing at least two times per day is necessary once teeth have erupted into the mouth. Infants who don’t yet have molars can have their teeth “brushed” with a clean, wet washcloth. Toothpaste is not a necessity, because it is the physical action of the bristles (or cloth) that is doing the work of removing food particles and dental plaque from the tooth surfaces. Children who cannot spit out toothpaste should not use a paste with fluoride in it. All toothpastes should never be used in more than a pea-sized amount. Brushing should be done in the morning after breakfast and at night before bed with nothing more to eat or drink besides water until the next morning. Parents should be doing the actual brushing until the child learns to tie his or her own shoes. This is a good indication that they possess the manual dexterity required to adequately clean their own teeth. Floss should be used to clean between any teeth that are in contact with each other. Many parents find floss holders or
