When Should Kids Start Brushing Their Teeth? A Guide by Age
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One of the most common questions parents ask is: “When should my child start brushing their teeth?” It's a great question — because healthy habits start early, and knowing the right milestones can help set your child up for a lifetime of great oral health.
Here’s your go-to guide on brushing age for toddlers, dental milestones, and how to care for little teeth at every stage.
0–6 Months: Before Teeth Arrive
Dental milestone: No visible teeth yet, but oral care still matters!
Even before the first tooth comes through, it’s important to clean your baby’s gums. Use a clean, damp cloth or a soft silicone finger brush after feedings. This helps prevent bacteria buildup and gets your baby used to the routine.
🍼 Parent Tip: Make it part of your bedtime ritual — it’s a great bonding moment.
6–12 Months: First Tooth Appears
Dental milestone: First baby tooth (usually the bottom front).
As soon as that first tooth appears, it’s time to introduce a toothbrush. Use a baby-sized, soft-bristled brush with water only (no toothpaste yet). Gently brush twice a day.
✨ Why It Matters: Early brushing prevents decay and helps baby get comfortable with the toothbrush sensation.
12–24 Months: More Teeth, More Responsibility
Dental milestone: Several teeth are coming in (molars too!).
Now’s the time to start using a rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Keep brushing twice a day, and always supervise. Let them “have a turn,” then you finish to make sure it’s thorough.
🪥 Our Tip: Try a three-sided toddler toothbrush like Teeny Teeth’s — it cleans all surfaces at once, making it easier and faster (especially for wriggly toddlers!).
2–3 Years: Toddler Independence (with Help!)
Dental milestone: Full set of 20 baby teeth is usually in by age 3.
Kids love doing things themselves — and brushing is no different. Encourage them to brush independently, but you’ll still need to follow up. Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
🎉 Make It Fun: Use songs, brushing charts, or turn it into a silly game. Check out our blog on fun ways to brush teeth!
4–6 Years: Building Good Habits
Dental milestone: Your child is learning technique and routine.
At this age, kids can brush more independently, but adult supervision is still key. Focus on proper brushing technique: small circles, all surfaces, and at least two minutes.
🧠 Brushing Hack: Set a timer or use a toothbrush with music to make it fun and consistent.
6+ Years: First Permanent Teeth
Dental milestone: Wobbly teeth and first adult molars appear around age 6.
This is when brushing becomes even more important — baby teeth fall out, but the new ones are for life. Encourage twice-daily brushing and introduce flossing once teeth touch.
🦷 Bonus Tip: Consider an electric or three-sided toothbrush to help with hard-to-reach spots.
Final Thoughts:
So, what's the right brushing age for toddlers?
➡️ Start early — even before teeth come in.
➡️ Introduce a toothbrush by the first tooth.
➡️ Guide your child through every stage as their mouth grows.
At Teeny Teeth NZ, we believe brushing doesn’t have to be a battle. Our innovative three-sided toothbrush is perfect for toddlers learning to brush — it’s gentle, efficient, and fun to use.
🛍️ Ready to Level Up Your Toddler’s Brushing Game?
Check out our parent-approved toothbrushes designed just for little mouths:
👉 Shop Teeny Teeth Now
FAQs
Q: What age should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?
A: As soon as the first tooth appears — usually around 6 months old.
Q: Should toddlers use toothpaste?
A: Yes, a rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste is safe from 12 months onward.
Q: When can kids brush their teeth alone?
A: Most kids need help brushing until around age 7–8 to ensure it's done properly.