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What Age Do You Need to Brush Your Child's Teeth Until?
Posted on 2/3/2025 by Thomas Plunkett DMD
As parents, we want the best for our children, and that includes their oral health. But when it comes to brushing their teeth, many of us wonder: how long do we need to keep helping them? The answer, like most things in parenting, is "it depends."
The Importance of Early Oral Care
Even before your child gets their first tooth, you should start cleaning their gums with a soft, wet washcloth. This will help remove bacteria and get them used to the sensation of having their mouth cleaned. Once their first tooth erupts, it's time to graduate to a soft-bristled toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste. As your child's motor skills develop, you can gradually transition to a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and let them take over brushing, with you supervising and providing assistance as needed.
When Can Your Child Brush Independently?
Most children are able to brush their own teeth independently around the age of six to eight years old. However, this is just a general guideline, and some children may be ready earlier or later. Here are some signs that your child might be ready to take over brushing on their own:
- They can hold and maneuver a toothbrush with good control.
- They can understand and follow simple instructions, such as spitting out the toothpaste and rinsing their mouth.
- They are able to brush their teeth for two minutes, twice a day.
Even though your child might be brushing independently, it's important to supervise them and continue to provide assistance with flossing until their teenage years.
Prevention Starts at Home
Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily are the cornerstones of good oral hygiene. However, it's also important for your child to have regular dental checkups starting around the age of one. These visits are a chance for the dentist to check your child's oral health, answer your questions, and provide preventive treatments such as fluoride varnish and dental sealants.
By establishing good oral care habits early and working together with your dentist, you can help your child build a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Talking to Your Dentist
If you're unsure whether or not your child is ready to brush their own teeth independently, talk to their dentist. They can assess your child's individual development and provide guidance based on their specific needs.
Remember, oral care is a team effort. By working together with your child and their dentist, you can set them on the path to a healthy smile for life.
Dentist Lakeland, FL - About - Thomas Plunkett, DMD Above all else, we here at Thomas Plunkett, DMD want our patients to maintain healthy, bright, and beautiful smiles! Call us today to schedule your appointment! Thomas Plunkett, DMD, 2137 E County Rd 540A, Lakeland, FL 33813 + 863-372-1010 + plunkettdental.com + 2/5/2025 + Page Terms:dentist Lakeland +