Brush the whole tooth right down to the gum line. Move the brush back and forth sideways along the teeth, working tooth by tooth and using very small and gentle movements. You can try holding the brush like a pencil so as to avoid applying too much pressure. Brush the front of the teeth, the back and the chewing surfaces.
When you brush the back of the upper and lower front teeth, hold the handle straight out. Make sure that the brush reaches the gums. Do not press too hard with the brush and always use small movements.
Let children work the foam between their teeth
From the age of six years, it is a good idea to finish brushing by letting your child work the toothpaste foam between their teeth, with the help of some water, before spitting it out. Children should preferably not rinse their mouth with water afterwards.
Electric toothbrushes
You can use an electric toothbrush for children aged three years or older. An electric toothbrush removes more deposits than a normal toothbrush, but you need to use a different brushing technique from the usual one. It may help to take your electric toothbrush to the dentist or dental hygienist, who can show you how best to use it.
Children need help in brushing with an electric toothbrush up to the age of 10–12 years. Some children may find it easier to brush using an electric toothbrush with a small head.
However, a small toothbrush head may not hold enough toothpaste. If this is the case, apply one centimetre of toothpaste and brush the upper teeth and then apply another centimetre before brushing the lower teeth.