Care for your child's teeth at every stage.
Birth to Age 2
Even infants have oral care needs. Talk to your child's pediatrician about oral care at the very first appointment and practice this oral care routine.
- Gently wipe your baby's gums with a soft, clean cloth after each feeding (breast or bottle).
- Begin brushing your child's teeth twice a day once the first tooth emerges, using a gentle back and forth motion.
- Schedule a dental appointment for your baby at your pediatrician's recommendation (usually by the first birthday).
Age 2 to 6
Teach your child proper brushing and flossing techniques and establish good oral care habits that can last a lifetime.
- Choose a toothbrush that's appropriate for your child's age, size, and stage of development, such as Oral-B Stages.
- Begin flossing your child's teeth as soon as two teeth touch each other.
- When your child is 2 years old, begin using a pea-sized amount of cavity-protection toothpaste with fluoride (which is safe for children age 2 and up as long as it is not swallowed), such as Oral-B Stages toothpaste or Crest Kid's Cavity Protection Sparkle Fun toothpaste.
- Encourage your child to brush twice a day for at least 2 minutes each time. Supervise his or her brushing until good habits are established.
- Ensure your child brushes the fronts, backs, and tops of teeth, plus the top of the tongue.
- Help your child floss once a day. The Oral-B Stages flosser has a contoured
handle for easy maneuverability.
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