How Often Should My Kids Brush Their Teeth?

 

Depending on when your child’s first teeth grow in, they can start having their teeth brushed as early as 18 months old. When they get a little older, you can invest in child-size toothbrushes and encourage them to brush on their own. While baby teeth continue to grow in and fall out, you may be asking yourself, “How often should my kids brush their teeth, anyway?” 

How Often Should My Kids Brush Their Teeth?

Leading experts at the Giving a Smile Foundation can help you and your child figure out how often to brush their teeth, and when to visit a pediatric dentist for an annual check-up. You can get involved with your child’s dental health through these simple steps. 

The Teeth Development Cycle

Any dentist will tell you that it is never too early to start your child on their oral health journey. As soon as their first teeth start to grow in, you can begin brushing them. Typically, the first baby teeth will start to appear at 6 months old, which can be cleaned with a gentle brush and some warm water. 

By the time your child is two years old, they should have most if not all of their first teeth. At this point, oral hygiene should be a regular part of everyday maintenance. You can also get your child set up with a dentist at this time, who will help them take utmost care of their teeth as they continue to grow. 

How Often Children Should Brush

The general consensus is that your child should brush their teeth twice a day, at the same rate as adults. The best times of day to brush their teeth are in the morning after waking up and after dinner before bed. Teeth should be brushed for at least 2-3 minutes on each side. 

It’s important to teach your kids about the different types of toothpaste available to you. Toothpaste is like a conditioner as it takes several minutes to work into your teeth, which is why scrubbing your teeth is so important. You can explain to your child that brushing your teeth is like taking a bath, as it gets rid of dirt and other harmful substances that could make your child sick over time. 

Encourage Your Child with Fun Practices

If your child is having a hard time learning how to properly brush their teeth and doesn’t want to spend the time doing it, there are a few fun habits you can help them learn to encourage them to take an active part in their oral health: 

Sing Songs While Brushing

Since your child should brush their teeth for at least five minutes, find one of their favorite songs and sing it with them while they brush their teeth. They can feel rewarded by getting through the song and brushing their teeth. It is a great way to introduce positivity into daily habits. 

Offer Rewards

Kids are much more willing to participate in activities when they know there might be a reward at the end. You can show them that they’ve done a good job by offering gifts of toys, treats, or gadgets that your kid might be looking forward to. You can also make a feast of healthy snacks to show them that just because they are taking care of their teeth, they don’t have to stop eating their favorite things. 

Get the Best Dental Care for Your Child Today

If you are looking to get the very best for you and your child, the Giving a Smile Foundation invites you to get involved today by contacting our friendly experts and scheduling a personal consultation. We can help you and your child curate a customized plan of care, guiding them through the best oral care steps throughout all ages of their life. Get in touch with us now to learn more!