Good oral health habits start long before the first tooth comes in. From infancy through the teenage years, brushing and flossing routines evolve as your child grows. Knowing what’s age-appropriate helps parents set the right routine, choose the right tools, and make oral care a positive part of daily life.
Birth to Age 2: Setting the Foundation
Even before your baby’s first tooth erupts, you can start healthy habits.
Before teeth: Gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp washcloth or soft infant gum brush after feedings. This helps remove bacteria and gets them used to oral care.
First teeth: As soon as the first tooth appears, use a soft, infant-sized toothbrush. Brush twice daily with a smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).
Flossing: Flossing usually isn’t necessary until at least two teeth are touching. Parents can do this gently once it becomes needed.
Tip: Make it part of your daily routine—morning and bedtime—so it becomes a habit early on.
Ages 2–3: Getting Started with Healthy Habits
By now, your child likely has most of their baby teeth. They’ll still need lots of help from you.
Brushing: Continue with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush. Use a smear of fluoride toothpaste (grain of rice size). Brush gently twice a day.
Flossing: Begin flossing once teeth touch. Parents should handle the flossing at this age, and floss picks can make it easier.
Tip: Add fun—sing songs, use a timer, or let them “brush” after you do to practice independence.
Ages 6–7: Building Independence
Kids at this age often have a mix of baby and permanent teeth. They can start brushing more independently, but still need supervision.
Brushing: Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Brush twice a day for two minutes. Parents should double-check to make sure no spots are missed.
Flossing: Kids can begin flossing on their own. Encourage daily flossing, especially between back teeth.
Tip: Try an electric toothbrush—fun designs and built-in timers make brushing easier and more engaging.
Tweens (Ages 9–12): Practicing Lifelong Skills
By now, kids can brush and floss on their own, but consistency may be a challenge. Reinforcing good habits now sets them up for lifelong oral health.
Brushing: Continue with fluoride toothpaste. Stress brushing at least twice a day, especially before bedtime.
Flossing: Daily flossing should be part of their routine. If traditional floss is tough, try floss picks or a water flosser.
Tip: Appeal to what matters—fresh breath, a bright smile, and avoiding extra dental work.
Choosing the Right Tools
Toothbrush: Always soft-bristled, sized for your child’s mouth. Replace every 3 months or sooner if bristles fray.
Toothpaste: Use fluoride toothpaste from the first tooth. Smear (rice-sized) until age 3; pea-sized from age 3 onward. Look for ADA-approved brands.
Floss: Start once teeth touch. Floss picks or waxed floss are easiest for beginners.
From wiping baby gums to helping tweens floss on their own, each stage builds toward a lifetime of healthy smiles. With the right tools and guidance, you can help your child learn how to care for their teeth at every age.