Advice on brushing teeth?

lafayettegirl

DS has a little toothbrush and he has the general idea of what to do, but he absolutely refuses to brush and will not let me anywhere near his mouth (never has).

Any advice on how to accomplish the brushing? I usually try during bathtime.

Also, how many times a day do you try to get in brushing? 

kepper6000

We do before bed and one other time during the day (usually after lunch or breakfast).  We try to make it a game (brush mama's teeth first, do silly things like pretend to brush hair with the toothbrush instead) but honestly sometimes DH has to hold her arms so I can get it in her mouth and there is screaming.  Once we get started she is usually ok and then we all clap at the end.

Sorry, I don't know how much help that is!  It might be painful to get the habit started but I do think it's a little easier once it's routine.  DD seems to know now that it's going to happen whether or not she makes a fuss.

cozybluebear

My son is usually pretty good at letting me brush his teeth but he fights it when he's cutting a tooth! I put him on the bathroom counter and let him "brush" while looking in the mirror. He loves watching himself brush! Then I'll stand behind him and brush his teeth from behind so he can still watch in the mirror. He seems to be fine as long as he can see it.