Brushing & Flossing for Different Ages
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.