Best dental hygiene practices for children

Best dental hygiene practices for children

Start brushing when the first tooth appears, brush twice daily, and help your child use the right amount of fluoride toothpaste. Arrange a dental visit by the first birthday. The routines below cover brushing, flossing, diet and dental checkups.

Start Early

  • Begin cleaning your baby’s mouth even before the first tooth appears by wiping the gums with a clean, moist cloth or a soft infant gum brush after feedings and before bedtime.
  • Start brushing with a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice) as soon as the first tooth erupts, usually around 6 months.

Use the Right Amount of Fluoride Toothpaste

  • For children under 3 years, use a smear of toothpaste (rice-sized).
  • For children aged 3-6 years, use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
  • Teach children who can spit to spit out excess toothpaste. Parents should apply the age-appropriate small amount and help with brushing; young children cannot reliably brush or spit on their own.

Supervise Brushing

  • Supervise children’s brushing until they are around 7-8 years old to make sure they use the correct amount of toothpaste and follow proper brushing techniques.
  • Teach them to brush all surfaces of the teeth, the gums, and the tongue.

Brush Twice a Day

  • Encourage brushing twice a day: in the morning after breakfast and at night before bed.
  • Each brushing session should last for about two minutes.

Floss Daily

  • Ask the dentist to demonstrate cleaning between teeth that touch; help your child with flossing rather than waiting for a particular birthday.

Healthy Eating Habits

  • Limit sugary snacks and drinks, which contribute to tooth decay.
  • Encourage a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and water to help maintain good oral health.

Regular Dental Checkups

  • Arrange the first dental visit when the first tooth appears and no later than the first birthday. Ask the dentist to set a follow-up schedule based on your child’s needs.
  • Continue with regular dental checkups every six months or as recommended by the dentist.

Use Dental Sealants

  • Ask your dentist about sealants, which are protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars) to prevent decay.

Protective Gear for Sports

  • Ensure your child wears a mouthguard during sports or activities that could cause injury to the mouth.

Educate on the Importance of Oral Health

  • Teach children why taking care of their teeth is important, using age-appropriate explanations.
  • Use books, apps, or videos designed to make dental care fun and interesting for children.

Conclusion

Implementing these dental hygiene practices can help children avoid dental problems like cavities and gum disease, promoting a healthy smile well into adulthood. It’s also important for parents and caregivers to model good dental hygiene habits, as children often emulate the behaviors they observe.

Sources and next steps

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s parent FAQ explains early visits, brushing help, sealants and follow-up. Its fluoride therapy guidance recommends no more than a rice-sized smear under age 3 and a pea-sized amount at ages 3–6.

Learn about a pediatric dentist or explore children’s health specialists.

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