Implementation of a Supervised Tooth Brushing Programme in Early ...

to brush all accessible tooth surfaces, tothe best of the child’s ability.‘The precise technique is less importantthan the result, which is the effectiveremoval of plaque without causing damageto the teeth and gums’. (Levine & Stillman-Lowe, 2004).Encourage children to spit out after toothbrushing and discourage rinsing, as this willwash away the topical benefits of fluoride.‘Care should be taken to ensure thatyounger children do not eat the toothpastedirectly from the tube or swallow excessiveamounts from the toothbrush’. (Levine &Stillman-Lowe, 2004).Toothbrushes are to be changed everythree months. A register of these changeswill be documented by key staff. Thisregister will then be collected by an oralhealth officer. Refer to appendix 9.If the child in uncooperative then don’t forcethem, try another day. If it persists informthe parent or guardian and a note made onthe child’s records.After brushing, each toothbrush is to beindividually rinsed thoroughly under hotrunning water and bristles shook to removeexcess water, then stored correctly.3. Storage and cleaning of the brushes Toothbrushes can become contaminatedwith bacteria, blood, saliva and oral debris.Toothbrushes should not be shared or leftin contact with each other.Toothbrushes should be stored in the brushbus that is provided in an up-right positionallowing the bristles to dry.A permanent marker is to be used on thebuses to enter the child’s name. ThePage 7 of 20