When Should My Child Start Brushing & Flossing Their Teeth?

Teaching your child good oral hygiene habits early can help protect their smile for years to come. But as a parent, you may wonder when it’s time to introduce brushing and flossing. Should you wait until your child has several teeth, or start cleaning their mouth sooner? Continue reading to find out!

When Should Your Child Start Brushing?

You should begin cleaning your baby’s mouth before their first tooth erupts. Gently wipe their gums with a clean, damp, soft cloth after feedings to remove residue and help your baby become accustomed to oral care.

Once the first tooth appears, usually around 6 months of age, begin brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled, infant-sized toothbrush. Use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and protect developing teeth against cavities.

As more teeth emerge, continue brushing every morning and before bedtime. Parents should perform the brushing for young children because they lack the coordination needed to clean every surface effectively. Even when your child wants to brush independently, supervise and help until they can brush thoroughly, generally around age seven or eight.

When Should Your Child Start Flossing?

Flossing should begin when your child’s teeth start touching each other. When teeth fit tightly together, a toothbrush cannot adequately clean the spaces between them. Food particles and plaque can accumulate in these areas, increasing the risk of cavities.

For many children, this happens when the back baby teeth come in, although the timing varies. Use child-friendly floss or floss picks to clean gently between contacting teeth once daily.

If you’re unsure whether your child’s teeth need flossing yet, ask your pediatric dentist to demonstrate the proper technique during an appointment.

How Can You Make Oral Hygiene Fun?

Getting children excited about brushing and flossing can sometimes feel like a challenge. Fortunately, a few simple strategies can make the routine more enjoyable.

• Choose a fun toothbrush: Let your child select a toothbrush featuring a favorite character, provided it has soft bristles and an appropriate size.
• Use a 2-minute timer: Play a favorite song or use a brushing timer to encourage thorough cleaning.
• Lead by example: Brush and floss together so your child can imitate your habits.
• Offer encouragement: Praise your child for participating rather than expecting perfect technique immediately.

Consistency is more important than perfection. Keep the routine positive, predictable, and age appropriate.

Your child’s first dental appointment should occur by their first birthday or soon after their first tooth erupts, whichever comes first. A pediatric dentist can check development, identify early signs of decay, and provide personalized oral hygiene advice.

About the Author

Dr. David S. Rosenfeld is an accomplished, experienced dentist practicing in Edison, NJ. He earned his degree from the Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery in New York City. The New Jersey Dental Association recognized him for volunteering time to the “Give Kids a Smile” program, and he was voted one of “NJ’s Favorite Kids’ Docs” by New Jersey Family Magazine. For more information on children’s dental services offered by Dr. Rosenfeld and his team, visit our website or call (908) 668-7838.