Exercise 4
The Electric Toothbrush
* This step is not absolutely necessary but it can help the child acclimate to the vibration of devices in preparation for dental visits.
TOOL:
Electric Toothbrush
* Recommendations for electric toothbrushes can be found in our Resource Center.
Download the exercise in PDF format.
reminder
In all these exercises,
be sure to apply the
CORE PRINCIPLES
'Sandwich'
DISCOVERY
Explore the electric toothbrush together, taking your time, as this object can be intimidating at first. Exposing the child too hastily to this tool could make them resist the experience, making it difficult to go back. Let the child touch the brush with their hand. Allow him to experiment with it first on objects, then on a parent’s hand, and eventually on their own hand. Gradually, you can encourage them to touch it with their face, cheeks, and lips by making the activity playful, like a tickling game.
EXEMPLE / EDUCATION
Show the child how the electric toothbrush is used by mom, dad, sibling, etc., or even demonstrate on a favorite toy, to indicate that it is safe.
TAKE TURNS
Alternate using the electric toothbrush, a few seconds on an adult, then on the child, respecting their comfort level. If the child is not yet ready to use it in their mouth, start with other parts of the body, like the hands.
ENACTMENT
Let the child use the electric toothbrush themselves, help them, or do it for them. Don’t forget to count the seconds! Start with short periods of brushing and gradually increase the duration as the child becomes more comfortable.
