How to brush your child’s teeth properly

From the first tooth (0–2 years)

Brushing starts as soon as the first tooth appears – usually around 6 months. Until then, wipe the gums with a clean damp gauze after milk.

• A baby brush with very soft bristles and a small head
• Fluoride toothpaste (1000 ppm), a “smear” the size of a grain of rice
• Twice a day, always before sleep
• Child lying on your lap so you can see well inside the mouth

Toddlers and preschoolers (2–6 years)

At this age children want to “do it themselves”. Let them try – but a parent always finishes the brushing. Their hands don’t yet have the skill to clean the back surfaces.

• Toothpaste with 1000–1450 ppm fluoride, a pea-sized amount
• Teach them to spit and not swallow – and not to rinse with water, so the fluoride stays on the teeth
• Two minutes, twice a day – a song or a sand timer helps a lot
• Change the brush every 3 months or when the bristles splay

Nancy’s tip

Brushing before bed is the most important one of the day. After it, only water – no milk, no juice.

School age (6–12 years)

The first permanent teeth appear – the “six-year molars” behind the baby teeth, often without anyone noticing. They have deep grooves and are the most vulnerable to decay. Until 8–9 a parent checks and “finishes” the brushing.

• Soft brush, regular amount of toothpaste (1450 ppm)
• Start flossing when teeth touch each other
• Electric brush? Yes, if the child likes it – it makes brushing easier and more fun
• Fissure sealants on the permanent molars protect the grooves

The right technique in 4 moves

• Brush at a 45° angle towards the gums, small circular movements
• Outer surfaces, inner surfaces, chewing surfaces – in order, so nothing is forgotten
• Two or three teeth at a time, without pressing
• Gently the tongue at the end

When brushing becomes a battle

Almost every family goes through this phase. What works in practice:

• Brush in front of them – children imitate
• Let them “brush” a plush toy or you first
• A two-minute song or a timer app
• They choose their own brush and toothpaste flavour
• Never punishment or threats with the dentist – the dentist is a friend

Nancy’s tip

If your child refuses persistently for weeks, tell us at the next visit. There is often a reason – a sensitive tooth, a mouth ulcer – that is easily solved.