Once a young infant is comfortable with a soft baby toothbrush that fits over the adult's finger, what tool should the OT transition parents to using to help with oral care?
A) Avoid toothbrushing
B) Adult toothbrush
C) NUK brush set
D) Electric toothbrush

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Young infants can be introduced to a soft baby toothbrush that fits over the adult's finger. This is used for sensory stimulation of the gums and cleaning of the gums and emerging teeth. Next, a NUK brush set is introduced to get the infant used to longer, brush-like instruments being placed in the mouth. This includes a set of three instruments that start out larger and round and end with one resembling a toothbrush. Once this is tolerated well, the child can be transitioned to a regular, soft child-sized toothbrush. Most children under the age of 6 do not have the dexterity to adequately brush their teeth. Children should be encouraged to participate by holding and moving the toothbrush; however, an adult needs to go over the entire mouth area to provide adequate cleaning. A child who is willing to use a battery-operated toothbrush may do a more thorough job. Children need to establish dental hygiene routines as part of their daily self-care skills.

Once a Young Infant Is Comfortable with a Soft Baby