Tooth Brushing

Tooth brushing
Ideas to help develop the skill of tooth brushing

Strategies for tooth brushing

Play to introduce teeth brushing

Timer apps

  • E.g. Youtube ‘Tooth brushing songs’
  • Apps such as Disney Magic Timer

Visuals

When needed, using tactile cues (e.g. touching cheek) where the brush needs to go

Adaptive aids

  • Electric tooth brushes are most effective when they can be used properly
  • The mouthguard or ‘y’ tooth brushes are not yet effective because they are not custom fitted to a user’s mouth-

For people with fine motor difficulties you might consider

  • Built up or alternative handles – examples
  • A digital brush or finger brush – note that this is much less effective than using a electric brush properly if possible

References: Taftazani, R. Z., Sitaresmi, Mei Neni,M.D., PhD., Hanindriyo, Lisdrianto, DDS,M.P.H., PhD., & Kuswandari, Sri, DDS,M.S., PhD. (2025). Optimizing oral hygiene for children and adolescents with down syndrome: A scoping review. Canadian Journal of Dental Hygiene, 59(2), 133-142. Retrieved from https://www.proquest.com/trade-journals/optimizing-oral-hygiene-children-adolescents-with/docview/3228852802/se-2

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