A nurse is reinforcing teaching about preventing dental caries with the parent of a 12-month-old toddler. Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide?

The correct answer is C: Clean the teeth with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush. For a 12-month-old toddler, a small, soft-bristled toothbrush is recommended as it is gentle on their delicate gums and teeth. Hard bristles could cause damage. Using a small toothbrush allows for better control and maneuverability in the child's small mouth. This helps ensure thorough cleaning without causing discomfort or injury. Positioning the bristles at a 90-degree angle (option A) might be too advanced for a toddler. Using a 5-inch strip of toothpaste (option B) could lead to excessive ingestion of fluoride. Flossing before brushing (option D) may not be suitable for a toddler's teeth and gums.