Spit, Don't Rinse
What you need
- their toothbrush
- children's fluoride toothpaste
How to do it
- Put the right amount of toothpaste on the brush: a smear for under-threes, a pea-sized blob from three.
- Let them brush first, then you brush every tooth properly.
- Show them how to lean over the sink and spit out the foam.
- Don't rinse with water afterwards, so the toothpaste can keep working.
Why it matters
Spitting out without rinsing is a new step they can do for themselves, and leaving the toothpaste on helps protect their teeth.
What they're learning
- Brushing teeth
- Brushing, then spitting, is the whole tooth routine in order.
- Spitting
- Pushing the foam out without swallowing it is a new mouth skill.
- Doing it themselves
- Spitting is a step they can always do on their own.
What to look for
Notice them spitting into the sink without a reminder after the brush comes out.
A tip
Dentists advise spitting out after brushing rather than rinsing. Keep brushing their teeth for them, or finishing off, until they're about seven.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: hold them up at the sink and spit together
Harder: let them check in the mirror that the foam has all gone
