How to Brush Your Child's Teeth: A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents
Brushing well twice a day is the most effective habit for keeping your child's teeth healthy. Here is how to do it right at every age.
How much toothpaste to use
Under age 3: a smear of fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice.
Ages 3 to 6: a pea-sized amount.
Teach your child to spit out the foam rather than swallow it.
Step-by-step brushing
Use a soft-bristled brush with a small head.
Angle the bristles toward the gumline and use gentle, short strokes.
Brush every surface: the outside, inside and chewing surfaces of all teeth.
Gently brush the tongue to remove bacteria.
Brush for two full minutes, in the morning and before bed.
Who should do the brushing?
Young children don't yet have the dexterity to brush well on their own. Many need a parent to brush for them or closely help until around age 7 or 8, when they can reliably do a thorough job themselves.
Don't forget to floss
Start flossing once two teeth touch, since a toothbrush can't clean between them. A floss pick can make this easier for small hands. Replace your child's toothbrush every three months, or sooner if the bristles look frayed.
Want a brushing check-up for your child? Call our Westwood office at 310-388-3859.