Tooth Brushing
Pediatric Oral Hygiene in Antioch, California
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD)
Establishing good oral hygiene early helps prevent cavities and keeps your child’s smile healthy for life. We encourage you to begin brushing as soon as the first tooth appears — with parental assistance until a child can brush thoroughly on their own, usually around age 7–8. We also recommend parents to lay children down when brushing and flossing the teeth, this will help ensure a higher quality brushing and help children become more comfortable as they transition into the dental chair.
Here’s how to care for your child’s teeth at every stage:
Infants (0–12 months)
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Clean gums with a soft cloth or infant toothbrush after feedings, even before teeth come in.
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Once the first tooth erupts, use a soft-bristled brush with a tiny smear (rice-sized) amount of fluoride toothpaste.
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Brush twice daily, especially before bedtime.
Toddlers (1–3 years)
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Continue brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste (rice-sized amount).
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Parents must perform the brushing — children this age lack the coordination to do it effectively.
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Be gentle and focus on all surfaces of every tooth, especially back molars.
Preschoolers (3–6 years)
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Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
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Children can begin learning to brush, but parents must supervise and finish brushing until proper technique is developed.
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Begin flossing once teeth are touching.
School-Age Children (6–9 years)
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Continue using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
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Children can start brushing more independently, but parental supervision is still essential.
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Ensure they brush for two minutes, using small, gentle circles along all tooth surfaces.
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Daily flossing is recommended as more permanent teeth come in.
Tweens and Teens (10+ years)
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Most kids can brush and floss on their own by this age, but reminders and encouragement help maintain consistency.
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Reinforce brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once daily.
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Consider an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer for better technique and motivation.
AAPD Recommendations:
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Brush twice daily with the proper amount of fluoride toothpaste.
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Floss once a day when teeth begin to touch.
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Parents should supervise brushing until around age 7–8.
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Schedule the first dental visit by age 1 or within 6 months of the first tooth.
Want to make sure your child’s brushing technique is on track? Ask us for a personalized demonstration at your next visit — we love helping families build healthy habits!
Ready to take the next steps in your child's dental care?
Contact Allstar Pediatric Dentistry with any questions or to make an appointment!