Head Start

Does toothbrushing in a group promote good oral hygiene practices?

When children brush their teeth using fluoridated toothpaste after meals and snacks, they learn good oral hygiene practices, develop toothbrushing skills, and learn about an important aspect of self-care.

Toothbrushing in a group gives children the opportunity to observe the behavior of other children. It also gives Head Start staff a chance to supervise the children's techniques. Toothbrushing can take place in the classroom, with children seated on the floor or at tables. After the children brush, staff should make sure the children spit the toothpaste into paper cups. The children should not rinse with water. The toothpaste that remains in the mouth helps prevent tooth decay.

Young children do not have the hand coordination to brush their teeth effectively. But having them brush their teeth under supervision can help them develop good oral hygiene practices. They should be complimented for trying to do things for themselves and for engaging in positive self-care behaviors. They will feel better about themselves and about the activity if they receive positive reinforcement.

Performance Standards

1304.21(a)(3)(ii)

1304.21(a)(5)(ii)

1304.23(b)(3)

References

Casamassimo P, Holt K, eds. 2004. Bright Futures in Practice: Oral Health-Pocket Guide. Washington, DC: National Maternal and Child Health Oral Health Resource Center.

Kanellis MJ. 2000. Caries risk assessment and prevention: Strategies for Head Start, Early Head Start, and WIC. Journal of Dental Public Health Dentistry 60(3):210-217; discussion 218-220.

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	Library Publications MCHB-Funded Projects Grants Administration TOHSS Head Start Alert Newsletter FAQs Links Bright Futures Toolbox Electronic Lists & Newsletters Links About Us FAQs Contact	A⁺ a^- Head Start Does toothbrushing in a group promote good oral hygiene practices? When children brush their teeth using fluoridated toothpaste after meals and snacks, they learn good oral hygiene practices, develop toothbrushing skills, and learn about an important aspect of self-care. Toothbrushing in a group gives children the opportunity to observe the behavior of other children. It also gives Head Start staff a chance to supervise the children's techniques. Toothbrushing can take place in the classroom, with children seated on the floor or at tables. After the children brush, staff should make sure the children spit the toothpaste into paper cups. The children should not rinse with water. The toothpaste that remains in the mouth helps prevent tooth decay. Young children do not have the hand coordination to brush their teeth effectively. But having them brush their teeth under supervision can help them develop good oral hygiene practices. They should be complimented for trying to do things for themselves and for engaging in positive self-care behaviors. They will feel better about themselves and about the activity if they receive positive reinforcement. Performance Standards 1304.21(a)(3)(ii) 1304.21(a)(5)(ii) 1304.23(b)(3) References Casamassimo P, Holt K, eds. 2004. Bright Futures in Practice: Oral Health-Pocket Guide. Washington, DC: National Maternal and Child Health Oral Health Resource Center. Kanellis MJ. 2000. Caries risk assessment and prevention: Strategies for Head Start, Early Head Start, and WIC. Journal of Dental Public Health Dentistry 60(3):210-217; discussion 218-220. Share \|
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