Healthy habits that start early tend to last a lifetime. Baby teeth matter too: they help children chew, speak clearly and hold space for adult teeth. Here’s what dental care looks like at each stage of childhood.
Babies (0–12 months)
- Before teeth appear: wipe gums gently with a clean, damp cloth after feeds.
- When the first tooth appears (often around six months): start brushing with a soft, small infant toothbrush.
- Toothpaste: many dental guidelines recommend a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice.
- Avoid bedtime bottles of milk or juice, which can cause early tooth decay.
- First dental visit: commonly recommended by the first birthday or within six months of the first tooth.
Toddlers (1–3 years)
- Brush twice a day, morning and before bed.
- Continue the rice-grain amount of fluoride toothpaste.
- Let them “help” brush, but an adult should do the main brushing.
- Encourage drinking from an open cup instead of bottles.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks, especially between meals.
Preschoolers (3–6 years)
- Move to a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
- Teach spitting out toothpaste instead of swallowing it.
- Supervise brushing; most children can’t brush thoroughly on their own yet.
- Make it fun with songs, timers or a brushing chart.
- Ask your dentist about fissure sealants or fluoride varnish if recommended.
School-age children (6–12 years)
- Permanent teeth begin to appear, often starting with molars at the back.
- Keep supervising until children show they can brush well, often around age seven or eight.
- Introduce flossing once teeth touch each other.
- Use mouthguards for contact sports.
- Watch for crowding or bite problems; an orthodontic check may be suggested around age seven.
Teenagers (13+ years)
- Encourage independent brushing and flossing.
- Discuss the effects of sugary and energy drinks.
- Be alert to braces care, wisdom teeth and gum health.
- Talk about the risks of tobacco and vaping to oral health.
Quick reference
| Age | Toothpaste amount | Who brushes |
|---|---|---|
| 0–3 years | Rice-grain smear | Adult |
| 3–6 years | Pea-sized | Adult, with child helping |
| 6–8 years | Pea-sized | Child, supervised |
| 8+ years | Pea-sized | Child, with checks |
Food habits that protect children’s teeth
- Offer water between meals
- Keep sweets to mealtimes
- Choose fruit, cheese, yoghurt and nuts (for older children) as snacks
- Avoid sticky sweets and frequent juice
The same daily principles apply to adults too; see these everyday teeth and gum care tips for the whole family.
Frequently asked questions
Do baby teeth really need fillings?
Often, yes. Untreated decay can cause pain and infection and affect adult teeth.
Is thumb-sucking harmful?
It’s normal in young children. If it continues after permanent teeth appear, ask your dentist.
How do I make brushing less of a battle?
Keep a routine, let children choose their brush, use a timer song and praise effort.
Final thoughts
Good dental care grows with your child: gentle cleaning for babies, guided brushing for young children and growing independence for teens. Start early, stay consistent and keep dental visits regular.
This article is general information and not dental advice. Follow your child’s dentist’s recommendations.
