Brushing Guide for Kids: The Right Way at Every Age

Good brushing habits start long before your child can hold a toothbrush. Here is exactly how to clean your child's teeth at every stage, from infant gum care through independent brushing.

Birth to 12 months

Before teeth appear, wipe your baby's gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings. When the first tooth appears, switch to a soft-bristled infant toothbrush with a rice-grain-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste. Brush gently twice a day, especially before bedtime.

Ages 1 to 3

Continue brushing twice daily with a rice-grain amount of fluoride toothpaste. Let your toddler hold a toothbrush and 'help,' but do the real cleaning yourself. Focus on all surfaces: front, back, and chewing surfaces. Start flossing when any two teeth touch.

Ages 3 to 6

Increase toothpaste to a pea-sized amount. Teach your child to spit (not swallow) after brushing. Let them brush first, then you follow up to get the spots they missed. Make it fun with a timer, a song, or a brushing app. Begin teaching them to brush in small circles rather than back-and-forth scrubbing.

Ages 6 and up

Most kids develop the motor skills for effective independent brushing around age 7-8. Continue supervising until you are confident they are doing a thorough job. Electric toothbrushes can help kids who struggle with manual brushing technique. Replace toothbrushes every 3 months or when bristles fray.