Category Archives: FAQs

Question: Toothbrushing is messy in our center. Do you have any tips for improving our program? Answer: “While toothbrushing at the sink makes sense, it can take time and make a mess. Also, if more than one child is at the sink, germs (bacteria) may be passed from one toothbrush to another (for example, when rinsing more than one toothbrush under running water at the same time). Some programs have all children brush their teeth at the same time at the classroom table. Teachers say that once children get used to the process, it’s organized, quick, and much less messy.”

For kids under age 6 years, parents–never children–should squeeze out the toothpaste. For children under age 3 years, parents should put a little smear crossways – across – the brush head, lightly raking a thin coating on just three to four rows of bristles. Don’t push down and don’t squish out a glob. Make it as thin as a grain of rice. It’s better to have too little than too much.