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When Should Children Start Brushing Their Teeth?
A structured overview of what credible sources and parent perspectives commonly say about this topic.
Quick answer
The American Academy of Pediatrics and dental experts recommend starting to brush a child's teeth when the first tooth erupts, usually around 6 months old. Parents should use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a smear of fluoride toothpaste and assist their child until they can brush independently, typically by age 6 to 8.
At a glance
Things to try now
What to do now
- 1Begin wiping your baby's gums with a clean, damp cloth if no teeth have appeared yet
- 2Start brushing with a soft infant toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth erupts
- 3Establish a consistent morning and bedtime brushing routine
What to say
- “Let's brush your teeth to keep them strong and healthy!”
- “We use just a little toothpaste, and then we spit it out like a big kid.”
- “Brushing your teeth helps keep your smile bright and your mouth happy.”
What to practice consistently
- Helping your child brush twice a day until they can do it well alone (usually by age 6-8)
- Encouraging your child to spit out toothpaste and not swallow it
- Making tooth brushing a positive, calm part of daily routines
What to avoid
- Using adult-sized toothbrushes or too much toothpaste for young children
- Letting children brush unsupervised too early, which can lead to ineffective cleaning
- Using brushing as a punishment or creating negative associations
These are common approaches mentioned in sources and by parents. They are informational, not prescriptive.
What this usually involves
- Starting with a soft-bristled infant toothbrush or a damp cloth to clean gums before teeth emerge
- Brushing teeth twice daily with a smear (about the size of a grain of rice) of fluoride toothpaste once teeth appear
- Parents or caregivers assisting or supervising brushing until the child can do it well alone (around age 6-8)
- Teaching children to spit out toothpaste and not swallow it
- Regular dental check-ups starting by the child's first birthday
- Avoiding sugary snacks and drinks that contribute to tooth decay
Related questions
The American Academy of Pediatrics and dental experts recommend the first dental visit by the child's first birthday or within six months after the first tooth appears.
Children under 3 years should use a smear of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice; children 3 to 6 years should use a pea-sized amount.
Most children develop the dexterity to brush effectively on their own between ages 6 and 8, but parental supervision is recommended until then.
Related articles on Parent.wiki
Recommended Brushing Time for Children
Dental health experts commonly recommend that children brush their teeth for about two minutes each time to ensure thorough cleaning. This duration helps remove plaque and reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.
When to Start Brushing Your Child’s Teeth: A Guide for Parents
Brushing a child's teeth should begin as soon as the first tooth appears, typically around 6 months of age. Early dental care helps prevent tooth decay and establishes healthy habits. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste is recommended for infants and toddlers.
Helping a Child Who Dislikes Brushing Their Teeth
Many children resist brushing their teeth due to sensory discomfort, a desire for control, or simply not understanding the importance. Common guidance includes establishing a consistent, calm routine, offering limited choices to empower the child, and using positive reinforcement to encourage cooperation. Avoiding power struggles and making brushing a fun, predictable part of the day can help reduce resistance.
Best Age to Start Reading Aloud to Children
Reading aloud to children can begin very early, even during infancy, to support language development and bonding. Common guidance suggests starting from birth or within the first year, with consistent reading routines becoming especially beneficial by toddlerhood (around age 1 to 2).
From around the web
Oral Health Tips for Your Child
Guidance on caring for your child's teeth from infancy through early childhood.
American Academy of Pediatrics
Children's Oral Health
Information on preventing tooth decay and promoting oral health in children.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Caring for Your Baby's Teeth
Details on the importance of baby teeth and how to care for them.
NICHD / NIH
Healthy Teeth, Healthy Child
Tips for parents on establishing good dental habits for children.
Nemours KidsHealth