Your baby’s first tooth is more than just a sweet milestone—it’s the beginning of a lifelong journey toward good oral health. While those tiny teeth may seem temporary, they play a big role in helping your child eat, speak, and smile with confidence. That’s why learning the right brushing baby teeth tips early on is so important.
At Great Grins, we love helping parents feel confident about caring for their little one’s smile. Here’s everything you need to know about when to start brushing, how to choose the right toothbrush and toothpaste, and how to make dental care fun for your child.
When to Start Brushing
You should begin brushing your child’s teeth as soon as their first tooth appears—usually around six months of age. Even before that, it’s helpful to gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feeding. This helps remove bacteria and gets your child comfortable with the idea of having their mouth cleaned.
Once the first tooth breaks through, switch to a soft-bristled baby toothbrush. At this stage, use only a smear (about the size of a grain of rice) of fluoride toothpaste. This small amount is safe if swallowed and provides early protection against cavities.
Starting early not only prevents decay but also helps your baby accept brushing as part of their daily routine—just like bath time or bedtime.
Choosing the Right Toothbrush and Toothpaste
When it comes to toothbrushes, size and softness matter most for little ones. For babies, look for a small brush head with extra-soft bristles and a chunky handle that’s easy for parents to hold. Some parents also use fingertip brushes made of soft silicone for better control and comfort during early brushing sessions.
As your child grows into toddlerhood (around age two or three), they can start using a child-sized toothbrush with a slightly larger handle. Encourage them to help brush, but be sure to supervise until they can do it properly on their own—usually around age six or seven.
For toothpaste, choose one that contains fluoride, as it strengthens enamel and helps protect against early decay. Most children’s toothpastes come in mild flavors like fruit or bubblegum to make brushing more enjoyable. Just be sure to use the right amount:
- Under age 3: a smear (size of a grain of rice)
- Ages 3 and up: a pea-sized amount
Brushing Technique for Babies and Toddlers
Good brushing habits start with gentle technique. Here’s a simple approach:
Position your baby: Sit your child on your lap, facing away from you, or lay them back with their head in your lap so you can see into their mouth.
Use small circular motions: Brush gently along the gumline and over all tooth surfaces—front, back, and chewing sides.
Don’t forget the gums: Even if your child has only a few teeth, gently brushing or wiping the gums helps remove milk residue and bacteria.
Brush twice a day: Morning and bedtime are ideal times to make brushing a consistent habit.
It’s normal for babies and toddlers to squirm, but keeping sessions short—around two minutes—is enough to clean effectively without causing frustration.
Making Brushing Fun
Getting little ones excited about brushing can be a challenge, but a few creative tricks can turn it into something they look forward to. Try these ideas:
- Sing a song: Choose a favorite two-minute song or make up your own silly brushing tune.
- Use a timer or app: There are many fun brushing apps and timers designed just for kids.
- Let them choose: Allowing your child to pick their toothbrush color or toothpaste flavor helps them feel involved.
- Turn it into a game: Pretend to “chase sugar bugs” away while brushing.
- Create a reward chart: Stickers or small rewards for consistent brushing can motivate toddlers to keep it up.
By keeping the experience positive, you’re helping your child associate brushing with fun rather than fuss.
How Often to Brush and When to Introduce Flossing
Children should brush twice a day, morning and night. As more teeth come in and start touching each other—often around age two or three—it’s time to introduce flossing.
Flossing removes plaque and food particles between teeth where brushes can’t reach. Parents should help with flossing until children develop the coordination to do it themselves, usually around age eight to ten.
Building Healthy Dental Habits for Life
Beyond brushing and flossing, setting up early dental visits helps establish lifelong oral health habits. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child’s first visit around their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting.
During these early visits, a Pediatric Dentist for Infants can check your child’s oral development, look for early signs of decay, and provide personalized tips for at-home care. They can also help ensure your child feels comfortable in the dental chair from the very start—a big step toward a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Partnering with Great Grins for Your Child’s Smile
At Great Grins, we know how much parents care about their children’s oral health. Our friendly team loves making dental care a positive experience from the very first visit. Whether you’re looking for brushing baby teeth tips, guidance on choosing the right toothbrush, or support with early dental habits, we’re here to help every step of the way.
If you have questions about your baby or toddler’s oral care, schedule a visit with Great Grins today. Together, we can make those little grins shine bright for years to come.
