Good oral hygiene habits start early and teaching your child how to care for their teeth from a young age can set them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Many parents wonder when brushing and flossing should begin and how to make these routines age appropriate. The answer may be earlier than you think.
When to Start Brushing Your Child’s Teeth
Brushing should begin as soon as your child’s first tooth appears, often around six months of age. Even though baby teeth are temporary, they play an important role in speech development, chewing, and guiding permanent teeth into place. Early brushing helps prevent cavities and introduces your child to daily oral care.
For infants and toddlers, use a soft-bristled, child-sized toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. Gently brush twice a day, especially before bedtime. Parents should handle brushing at this stage, as young children don’t yet have the coordination to clean their teeth effectively.
Teaching Independent Brushing Skills
Around age two or three, many children want to try brushing on their own. This is a great time to encourage independence, but supervision is still essential. You can let your child brush first, then follow up to make sure all tooth surfaces are properly cleaned. Around age three, you can increase toothpaste to a pea-sized amount.
Most children don’t have the motor skills to brush thoroughly until about age six or seven. Until then, parents should continue to assist or closely monitor brushing to ensure it’s done correctly and consistently.
When Should Flossing Begin?
Flossing should start as soon as two teeth touch, which can happen earlier than many parents expect. This often occurs between ages two and four. When teeth touch, food particles and plaque can get trapped where a toothbrush can’t reach, increasing the risk of cavities between teeth.
At first, parents should floss their child’s teeth using gentle motions. Child-friendly floss picks can make the process easier and less intimidating. As your child grows older, you can gradually teach them how to floss independently, usually around age eight to ten.
Making Brushing and Flossing a Positive Habit
Consistency and positivity are key. Make brushing and flossing part of a predictable daily routine, such as after breakfast and before bed. Use praise, fun toothbrushes, music, or reward charts to keep your child motivated. Avoid turning oral care into a battle; patience goes a long way.
The Role of Dental Visits
Children should see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting. Early dental visits help reinforce good habits, monitor development, and catch potential problems early.
Brushing should begin with your child’s first tooth, and flossing should start once teeth touch. With guidance, encouragement, and consistency, you can help your child build strong oral hygiene habits that last a lifetime.
About the Practice
Looking for a trusted dentist for your little one? Here at Dr. Maggie Davis & Associates, we help children of all ages from infants to teens needing orthodontic treatment. Our dentists and team also have plenty of experience working with children who have special needs. Come see why we’re a top-rated pediatric practice. Schedule an appointment online or call (727) 786-7551.
