Books about brushing teeth

[Julia2132009]

My 14 month old is refusing to have his teeth brushed. We are trying lots of new things in our attempts to get him into good brushing habits - one idea we thought of is getiing some books about about the importance of teeth brushing, or books featuring characters having their teeth brushed. I have already ordered The Crocodile's Smile, but I was hoping for one or two more - any ideas? Thanks.

Both my DC hated getting their teeth brushed when they were younger.

My MIL was a pediatric dentist, and she said the best way to clean teeth at that age is to rub the teeth with a bit of muslin wrapped round your finger.

Also, even if your child swallows a small amount of age appropriate toothpaste, he/she is getting the benefit from the flouride in it, which provides systemic protection.

Thanks TheYearOfTheCat. I tried muslin and although he still hated it, it's much easier to rub the teeth with then the brush, so I think he got a better clean that way than he has all week!

Try Maisy goes to the Dentist (or something like that). Mine are 4 and 2 and love it. The dentist in it is called Dr Biteright and we play dentists - I'm Dr Biteright and they come and visit me for a tooth inspection. Doesn't always work, but quite good while it has a novelty factor.

We went through a similar thing with our ds - what helped were some children's film clips on youtube of animated cartoons / songs about toothbrushing (his favourite was one showing the plasticine germs!) and of other children brushing their teeth. So, not suggesting these as a replacement for books but may be worth a try.