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Module 3: Prevention of Tooth Decay

3.2 Oral Hygiene Practices

Begin cleaning an infant’s gums with a soft infant toothbrush and water after feedings even before the teeth erupt.

• Begin cleaning an infant’s teeth as soon as the first tooth erupts, usually around age 6 to 10 months. Use a soft infant toothbrush that is easy for the parent to hold and small enough to fit in the infant’s mouth. Lift the lips to brush the front and back of the teeth and at the gum line.
• Brush an infant’s or child’s teeth two to three times a day, preferably after eating. Brushing before bed is most important. Remember not to give the infant or child anything to eat or drink (except water) after brushing at night.
• To brush an infant’s teeth, the infant should be seated in the parent’s lap, with both facing in the same direction. To brush a child’s teeth, the parent should stand or sit behind the child, with both facing a mirror.
• For infants and children under age 2, brush the teeth with plain water. For infants and children at increased risk for tooth decay, consult with a dentist or physician about brushing their teeth with fluoridated toothpaste. (See Module 2, sections 2.1 and 2.2.)
• For children ages 2 and above, brush the child’s teeth with no more than a pea-sized amount (small smear) of fluoridated toothpaste. Make sure the child spits out the toothpaste after brushing, but do not have the child rinse with water. The small amount of fluoridated toothpaste that remains in the mouth helps build strong healthy teeth.
• Young children will want to hold the toothbrush and participate in toothbrushing, but they cannot clean their teeth well without parental help. After children have fine motor skills (for example, the ability to tie their shoelaces), typically by age 7 or 8, they can clean their teeth well on their own but should be supervised.

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