As dentists, we get questions all the time about toothbrushing. Chances are, you’ve had very similar questions and even a battle or two trying to get your kid to brush. If this is you, keep reading as we dive a bit deeper.
When should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?
Long before a baby has teeth, you can wipe baby’s mouth out with a damp washcloth or finger brush after feedings to stop the bacterial growth. Tooth brushing can begin as soon as your baby’s first tooth starts to poke through the gums. This not only reduces the amount of bacteria in contact with the teeth but also is the early stages of creating good dental habits.
How much toothpaste should I use?
We recommend that for babies under age 3, parents moisten a soft age-appropriately sized toothbrush with water and apply no more than a rice-grain size smear of fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride helps prevent cavities.
For kids age 3+, you can start to apply a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste. This is also a good age to teach your baby how to spit. Your child may swallow some of the toothpaste at this age, but in pea-sized amounts two times a day, this is harmless.
How often should my child brush?
It’s best that children brush two times daily, but if only one time a day is possible, at night after eating and before bed is best. After having brushed their teeth, your child should only have water, no other drinks or food.
When can my child brush on their own?
Your child is getting more independent, and you realize they are brushing all by themselves. Below are recommendations to determine when your child can brush well independently.
Here are some recommendations:
- Begin to allow your child to practice under your supervision, often times knowing you will need to follow up behind them.
- Manual dexterity: a good gauge is around age 6-9 or when they can tie their own shoes.
- Adult supervision can continue periodically to ensure they are brushing properly.
- Practice! Practice! Practice! They will get better with time and age.
It can be challenging to motivate your child to brush their teeth as they may not understand the benefits early on. Make a challenge or game out of it. Download this FREE brushing reminder and reward your child with a new toy or sticker for practicing good oral hygiene!
