Kid's Teeth Guide Back to the guide
Pediatric dentist-backed guidance

Daily tooth care for kids

Small steps each day help stop cavities and make dental visits easier. Here is what to do at each age.

Babies · Birth to 2 years

Start care before the first tooth

Wipe gums with a clean, damp cloth. When the first tooth comes in, brush twice a day with a soft, small brush.

  • Use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice.
  • Plan the first dental visit by age 1, or within 6 months of the first tooth.
  • Do not put a baby to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, or juice.

Little kids · Ages 3 to 5

Build a simple two-minute habit

Brush in the morning and before bed. Grown-ups should do the brushing or help finish every time.

  • Use a pea-size amount of fluoride toothpaste and teach your child to spit.
  • Floss teeth that touch. A floss pick can make this easier.
  • Keep sweet drinks and snacks to meal times instead of all day.

Big kids · Ages 6 to 12

Guide them as adult teeth grow in

Kids may brush on their own, but check their work until they can clean every tooth well.

  • Brush for two minutes, twice a day, with fluoride toothpaste.
  • Floss once a day and ask about sealants for new back teeth.
  • Use a mouthguard for sports that could hurt the teeth or face.

Pediatric dentist-backed sources

This page is for learning, not for finding or treating a health problem. Your child’s dentist knows your child best.

AAPD: parent resources ADA MouthHealthy: babies and kids