Start brushing as soon as your child's first tooth appears — typically between 4 and 7 months of age. Use a soft-bristled infant toothbrush with a rice-grain-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste. You should brush for your child until they are around age 6–8, when they develop enough coordination to do it effectively on their own.
What You'll Learn
When Should Brushing Start?
Brushing should begin the moment your child's first tooth erupts. Most babies get their first tooth between 4 and 7 months, though some arrive earlier or later. Before teeth appear, you can wipe your baby's gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings to remove bacteria and get them used to oral care.
Starting early does two important things: it removes the bacteria and sugars that cause cavities, and it establishes brushing as a normal part of your child's daily routine — making it far less of a battle as they get older.
What Toothbrush and Toothpaste Should I Use?
Birth to first tooth
Brush: Damp cloth or silicone finger brush
Toothpaste: No toothpaste needed — just water
First tooth to age 3
Brush: Soft-bristled infant toothbrush with a small head
Toothpaste: Rice-grain-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste
Ages 3 to 6
Brush: Soft-bristled toddler toothbrush
Toothpaste: Pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste
Ages 6 and up
Brush: Child-sized soft-bristled toothbrush (replace every 3 months)
Toothpaste: Pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste
How to Brush Your Child's Teeth
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small amount of fluoride toothpaste
Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle toward the gumline
Use gentle, circular or back-and-forth motions — never scrub hard
Brush all surfaces: the front, back, and chewing surfaces of every tooth
Brush for a full two minutes — use a timer or song to help
Brush the tongue lightly to remove bacteria
Rinse with water and encourage spitting (not swallowing) as soon as your child is able
Tips for Building a Brushing Habit
Consistency is the most important factor. Brush twice a day — once in the morning and once before bed — every single day. Here are a few strategies that help:
Let your child pick their own toothbrush (favorite color, character, or style)
Use a two-minute brushing song or a sand timer to make it feel like a game
Brush your own teeth at the same time so your child sees it as a normal adult activity
Praise and positive reinforcement go a long way — avoid making it a power struggle
Never skip the bedtime brush — saliva production decreases at night, making teeth more vulnerable to decay
Frequently Asked Questions
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