Therapy 

OT Tips for Tooth Brushing

Plus Two Different Visuals

1. Let your child hold the toothbrush from a young age.
2. They should try to do it independently, but it is recommended that tooth brushing is supervised until they are eight years old to guarantee their oral hygiene is done properly.
3. Try different toothbrushes – Try different sizes and textures to support your child’s sensory preferences. Try a toothbrush with a thicker handle to help grasp.
4. Try different brands and kinds of toothpaste to find the ideal for your child- The smell and the taste of the toothpaste might be a sensory trigger for your child. Using unflavoured and unscented toothpaste might help to overcome this difficulty.
5. Try an electric toothbrush – The vibration provides tactile and proprioceptive input and might help bring more sensory awareness to the mouth.
6. Try different water temperatures.
7. Sing a song, count down or use a timer to teach the appropriate length of time.
8. Try brushing their teeth in front of a mirror to give them visual support. You can find the most comfortable environment and use a hand mirror. For example, try brushing teeth while in the bathtub.
9. Use a visual schedule with step-by-step photos to brush teeth to support their planning and sequencing.
10. Make toothbrushing fun – Create a game like “fighting the germs” and role play with dolls, animal toys and toothbrush charts.