It's always a good time to double-check your child's dental routine. But how do you get a toddler with the jaw leverage of a crocodile to open wide? Dentist Dr Gillan Millman of the British Dental Association advises...

1. Sit them on your knee and put the brush in from over their shoulder. A game like 'here comes the aeroplane' may help.

2. As they grow, let them have a go at doing their own teeth and you do yours at the same time. Make it a positive, fun routine.

3. When you've both finished brushing, check each other out - this will give you the opportunity to have another go.

4. Use a toothbrush designed for children and brush in circular movements, gently around each tooth, with the bristles aimed where the tooth and gum meet. Work right around the mouth so you don't miss any.

5. Don't give up. Weeks of having a go morning and night, which will eventually develop into a healthy daily routine, will be so worth it.