Building brushing habits: a guide for every age
From first tooth to teenager, here's how to keep your child brushing properly at every stage.
Getting children to brush properly is one of the most common struggles parents face. The approach needs to evolve as your child grows.
0-2 years: You do it all
Use a soft baby toothbrush with a thin smear of fluoride toothpaste (1000ppm). Brush gently twice a day. Make it part of the bedtime routine from day one so it becomes normal, not a battle.
3-6 years: You lead, they copy
Children lack the dexterity to brush effectively on their own until around age 7. Let them have a go first, then you finish. Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste (1350-1500ppm fluoride from age 3). Spit, don't rinse.
7-12 years: Supervised independence
They can brush on their own but still need supervision. Check they're reaching back teeth and spending a full two minutes. An electric toothbrush with a timer can help enormously at this stage.
Teenagers: Motivation matters
Teens often have excellent dexterity but poor motivation. Focus on the cosmetic benefits: fresh breath, white teeth, healthy gums. Orthodontic patients need extra attention to cleaning around brackets and wires.
The golden rules at every age
- Same time, same place, every day
- Spit out toothpaste, don't rinse with water
- Replace the brush every 3 months
- Make it boring-normal, not a reward-or-punishment situation
