Toothbrushing

Ideally, toothbrushing should be done after every meal. But especially before bedtime. To effectively remove plaque from the teeth and gums, the following brushing method is recommended.

• Place bristles on the gumline at a 45 degree angle.
  Brush over the teeth and gum gently, in a circular motion.
  Do this on both the outside and inside surfaces of the teeth.
• Thoroughly brush the tops or biting surfaces of the back teeth.
• Brushing thoroughly should take at least 3 minutes.
• A soft toothbrush is the best kind of toothbrush to use.
• A toothbrush should be replaced every 3 months, after being sick or when the bristles become frayed or bent.

ACTIVITIES

1. Have children practice the proper brushing method by making small circular hand motions in the air.

2. Use a toothbrushing chart and have each child record the days
when their teeth were brushed at least twice. ( See work sheet included )

3. Have the children make a family toothbrushing chart.

4. Have the children discuss what they do in the morning before coming to school. Ask children why toothbrushing is important.

5. Ask children to describe the toothbrushes they use at home. Compare descriptions with a proper toothbrush ( flat, not flared, soft bristles).

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