How to Brush Your Child's Teeth at Every Age (0–12 Years)

Why Baby Teeth Matter More Than You Think

One of the most common things parents say in my clinic: 'It's just a baby tooth — it'll fall out anyway.' This is a dangerous myth. Baby teeth hold space for permanent teeth, are essential for chewing and proper nutrition, critical for speech development, and dental infections in baby teeth CAN affect developing permanent teeth.

Age-by-Age Brushing Guide

0–6 Months (Before First Tooth)

Wipe your baby's gums twice daily with a clean, damp cloth or soft silicone finger brush. This removes milk residue and gets baby accustomed to oral hygiene.

6–12 Months (First Tooth Appears)

Start brushing as soon as the first tooth erupts. Use a soft infant toothbrush with a rice-grain sized amount of fluoride toothpaste (1000ppm F). Brush once a day (before bed is most important). Don't rinse after brushing — let the toothpaste work!

3–6 Years (Preschool)

Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste now. Begin teaching the child to brush, but always check and finish brushing for them. Introduce flossing once teeth touch each other.

When Should My Child First See a Dentist?

First visit by age 1 or when the first tooth appears, whichever comes first. Early visits are low-stress, educational appointments — we count teeth, apply fluoride varnish, and counsel parents. Children who start early have significantly less dental anxiety.