Your child should brush their teeth a minimum of twice a day—once in the morning and once before bedtime. You should look for a clean tooth surface free of food, plaque, and other debris. Your child should also brush their gums and tongue and floss each time.
You should monitor your child’s brushing and flossing routine until they are responsible enough and have the motor skills to do a good job on their own. The exact age depends on each child’s maturity and development, but supervising them until they are 8 or 10 years old is not excessive.
Remember—you are not only helping to protect their developing teeth but also establishing good lifelong oral hygiene habits!
Which Toothpaste Is Right for Your Child?
It’s important to choose toothpaste that contains fluoride, a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities. There are all sorts of yummy flavors of toothpaste available, and the right one for your child is the one they are most likely to use.
The American Dental Association suggests children up to age two use a rice-sized portion of fluoride toothpaste for brushing. Between the ages of 2–6, the amount of toothpaste should be pea-sized.
When it comes to a toothbrush, there are so many possibilities that we suggest asking our children’s dentist or hygienist. They will be happy to recommend one based on your child’s age, skill level, and dental needs.
Schedule Your Child’s Next Teeth Cleaning
If your child is due for their next teeth cleaning and checkup, please call our children’s dental office in Phoenix, AZ, to schedule an appointment. At that time, we will be happy to answer your questions and provide guidance to ensure your child is getting the most out of their brushing and flossing routine.