Tooth brushing headache

[Dancergirl]

So yet another morning started with an argument about tooth brushing

Dd is 8.5. Her teeth aren't brilliant, she has some plaque build up on her bottom teeth. She's at that in between stage of some adult teeth, some baby teeth, gaps and sensitivity when she has a wobbly one. She was brushing her own teeth independently for a while but then I noticed that she wasn't really brushing properly I went back to helping. Dentist says that some children don't have the manual dexterity to brush properly yet.

But each time we brush she makes a huge fuss. She has a VERY low pain threshold and complains that it hurts, sometimes the gum bleeds very slightly which she fusses about. She can't seem to move her tongue and lips out of the way so I can get to the front bottom ones.

Today resulted in me losing patience and her sobbing

She's using a manual toothbrush, would an electric help? I have suggested it but she's not keen.

As a dentist I'd say definitely use an electric tooth brush: you can get children's ones with Disney characters on which she might like. Use adult tooth paste with fluoride. Maybe one that is coloured rather than white, to mask any blood if it upsets her. Get disclosing tablets (they'll really help guide the brushing) and a reward system in place. If her gums are bleeding they're probably tender, remind her this will only improve if she brushes properly.

I would definitely get her to try an electric brush. Some dentists will actually show children how to brush correctly if you take the brush with you, might be worth asking.

Many years ago my then dentist did a little workshop for a few children at a time and told them all about correct brushing. I thought that was lovely.

It's so hard because it's really important. We had many battles over the years but now as teens they seem to get it.

Thanks, are there any particular electric brushes I should get? Had a look in Boots this morning, they had a Barbie one but the head was too big.

I'd recommend an Braun OralB one. My DSs have Disney Cars ones. If you just get the normal adult ones that's fine too: no need to get the v pricey ones, just any rechargeable model. Keep an eye out, you should not have to pay full price!!