Are baby’s first teeth starting to come in? Looking to get ahead of the game when it comes to teaching your child about good oral hygiene habits? You’re in the right place! Our toothbrushing timeline for kids will help you establish a routine and keep your child’s teeth healthy and clean.
Before teeth appear
Before your baby’s first tooth makes its debut, caring for their gums is essential. Gently wipe their gums with a soft, damp cloth after each feeding. This simple step not only helps remove any bacteria or food particles but also gets your baby accustomed to oral care from an early age. You can even make it a part of your bonding routine—talk to your baby while you clean their gums to encourage a positive association with dental hygiene.
Ages 0-2
As soon as your child’s first tooth appears, it’s time to start brushing! Use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush with just water to gently brush their teeth twice a day. This establishes a healthy routine early on. Around this age, you can introduce fluoride toothpaste, using only a small amount—about the size of a grain of rice. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay.
Don’t forget to schedule their first dental visit within six months of the first tooth erupting or by age 1, whichever comes first. Early visits help familiarize your child with the dentist and allow for the early detection of any potential issues.
Ages 2-6
As your child grows, continue brushing their teeth twice daily, now using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. This is a great age to make toothbrushing a fun activity. Consider brushing together—start by brushing your teeth first, then let your child mimic you. This not only teaches technique but also makes brushing feel like a shared experience.
It’s also vital to supervise and assist your child until they develop the dexterity to brush their own teeth effectively. You can use visual aids, such as a toothbrushing chart, to help them track their brushing routine. Getting your child on a consistent schedule for brushing in the morning and before bedtime is crucial for building good habits.
Make it a routine to talk about how brushing keeps cavities away and why it’s important to clean all areas of their mouth, including the tongue, to remove bacteria that cause bad breath.
Ages 6+
By around age 6, many children have developed the coordination necessary to begin brushing their own teeth. However, parental supervision remains important to ensure they are doing it correctly. Encourage your child to brush for at least two minutes each time and remind them to cover all surfaces of their teeth—inner, outer, and chewing surfaces.
To help them remember, you might introduce a fun song that lasts about two minutes or use a timer. You can also set up reminders, such as placing sticky notes in the bathroom to encourage independent brushing while still checking in on them.
Toothbrushing made easy for kids
- Let your child choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste with their favorite characters or flavors.
- Use a timer or play a song to make sure they brush for the recommended two minutes.
- Create a reward system for consistent and effective brushing habits.
Book your child’s next dental appointment at Route 66 Children’s Dentistry
At Route 66 Children’s Dentistry, we are dedicated to helping children establish good oral hygiene habits from an early age. Our team is here to provide personalized care for your child’s dental needs, including regular exams and x-rays. Schedule an appointment for your child today and reach out to us with any questions or concerns about their dental health. Together, let’s keep those smiles bright and healthy!