Choosing a toothbrush : Use a soft bristle toothbrush  designed for brushing  an infant or child’s teeth.

Holding a toothbrush : If the child is having a hard time holding the toothbrush , you can strap it to child’s hand with a wide rubber band, a hair band, or Velcro. Toothbrushes with thick handles can also be found in retail and discount stores.

Teaching your child to brush : You can ask your dentist , dental hygienist, occupational therapist , or early childhood specialist for help. You can also  place your  hand over the child’s hand to guide the toothbrush as the child brushes.

Using fluoride toothbrush : Use toothpaste with fluoride . An adult should always place the toothpaste on the brush.

• For children under age 3: Use a small smear  of fluoride toothpaste ( an amount the size of a grain of rice ).
• For children age 3 to 6 years : Use a pea-size amount of fluoride toothpaste.
• If a child cannot spit :Have the child tilt his or her mouth down so that the toothpaste can dribble out into the sink, a cup, or a washcloth.  It is important to make sure to help or watch the child while brushing since  the fluoride in toothpaste is  meant to be swishes but not swallowed . When the child is old enough, tell him to spit out the toothpaste after brushing.

Positioning the child. Positioned the child in a way to make him feel comfortable and allow an adult to brush his teeth.

Keeping the child engaged in brushing. Use a timer, a short song, or counting as a game to encourage brushing for 2 minutes.