Totally relate to the “just getting the brush in” milestone. We started with a finger brush too, and it felt way less stressful—like I had more control and could avoid accidental pokes. Now that we’ve switched to a regular baby toothbrush, it’s mostly just him gnawing on it and me sneaking in a few quick swipes. I’ve wondered if letting him chew is actually helping at all or if it’s just making him think brushing is for teething relief. Has anyone noticed if switching earlier or later made a difference with their kid getting used to the routine?
I’ve wondered if letting him chew is actually helping at all or if it’s just making him think brushing is for teething relief. Has anyone noticed if switching earlier or later made a difference...
I get what you mean about the “just getting the brush in” milestone. We had a similar start with the finger brush—felt safer somehow, like I wasn’t going to jab her by accident. But honestly, I started to worry that sticking with the finger brush too long might make her resist switching later. I kept picturing her at five, still refusing anything but my finger... probably overthinking, but that’s just me.
When we moved to a regular baby toothbrush, she mostly chewed on it at first too. But I actually saw it as kind of a win—at least she was getting used to having something in her mouth that wasn’t food or a pacifier. I know some people say it might confuse them and make them think brushing is for teething, but for us, the chewing stage didn’t last long. She figured out pretty quick that it was part of our nightly routine and now she actually lets me brush (most nights).
I guess my take is that switching earlier helped her adjust faster, even if it was messy at first. I wouldn’t stress too much about the gnawing—it’s all part of them getting comfortable with it, I think.
