A Guide to Tooth Brushing for Children 0-6 Years of Age
Good oral hygiene habits start early! Here is an easy to follow guide for taking care of your child’s teeth, gums and mouth. Help protect your child’s smile for life. Learn more about our Preventative Dentistry Services for Children.
Good Oral Hygiene Before Teeth Appear
- Wipe your baby’s gums, tongue and mouth after every feeding with a clean washcloth or small gauze pad moistened only with warm water. This will remove excess food and bacteria.
First Tooth – 3 Years of Age
- The appearance of the first tooth is the perfect time to introduce your child to your family’s AXIS Dental Group oral care professionals.
- Help brush your child’s teeth using a soft toothbrush moistened only with warm water.
- Brush your child’s teeth at least two times a day for two minutes each time.
From 3-6 Years of Age
- Help brush your child’s teeth using a soft toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of toothpaste, two times a day for two minutes each time.
- Introduce fluoride toothpaste only when your child is old enough to rinse their mouth with water without swallowing it.
- Begin supervising the tooth brushing process rather than doing it. Have the child hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and brush gently back and forth with short strokes. Continue this routine until your child can properly brush their teeth independently. Remember, practice makes perfect.
Preventative Dentistry for Children
We are some of the important oral hygiene services we focus on to protect your child’s teeth:
- Dental cleanings including fluorides and sealants
- Oral health education
- Nutrition counselling
- Mouthguards to protect teeth sports and grinding (bruxism)
- Orthodontics
Learn more about Dentistry for Kids today and give us a call to book an appointment. We want their smiles to last a lifetime!