The short answer
Brush as soon as the first tooth appears and continue twice a day with an adult doing or closely helping. For a child under 3, use only a rice-grain-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste. Limit frequent sugary drinks and snacks, and arrange dental care according to local guidance. Seek a dentist promptly for suspected tooth decay, pain, or swelling.
In this guide · 12 sections
Keep in mind
- Brush twice a day from the first tooth; an adult needs to do or closely supervise brushing.
- Use only a rice-grain-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste before age 3.
- Milk teeth matter for eating, speaking, and comfort; seek dental advice for pain or possible decay.
When should you start brushing?
Start brushing as soon as the first milk tooth comes through. Even a few teeth benefit from a regular cleaning routine.
Aim to brush twice daily, including just before bed. Use a small, soft-bristled child’s toothbrush and make the routine calm and predictable.
How much toothpaste should you use?
For a child under 3, use only a smear of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. An adult should put the toothpaste on the brush.
Keep the tube out of reach. Encourage your child to spit if able, and do not let them lick or eat toothpaste. A toddler may swallow some, so using the small amount matters.
A dentist may give different advice based on your child’s teeth or risk of decay. Follow that individual guidance.
Why does fluoride matter?
Fluoride helps protect tooth enamel and prevent decay when used as part of regular brushing.
Choose fluoride toothpaste suitable for young children and check the local product label. Do not add fluoride drops or supplements unless a dentist or clinician recommends them.
After brushing, avoid rinsing with lots of water if your child can spit; rinsing can wash away some fluoride. Do not force a toddler who cannot yet spit reliably.
Should the child hold the brush or should an adult?
A toddler can practise holding a toothbrush, but an adult should do the brushing or finish it carefully. Young children do not yet have the coordination to clean every surface well.
You can let your child take a turn first, then gently brush the front, back, and chewing surfaces. Sit them on your lap or use a position where you can see their teeth.
Stay patient and keep the session brief. If brushing is difficult, try a song, a mirror, or brushing together without turning it into a struggle.
Can bedtime milk or a bottle affect teeth?
Frequent exposure to sweet drinks can contribute to tooth decay. After the bedtime brushing, offer water rather than a sugary drink.
Avoid putting a child to bed with a bottle of milk or a sweet drink. If your toddler still uses a bottle, work toward offering drinks from a cup and discuss persistent difficulties with a health professional.
Breastfeeding can continue if desired; keep a twice-daily brushing routine and ask a dentist about your child’s individual risk.
When should the first dental visit happen?
Regular dental care helps check that teeth are healthy and gives caregivers a chance to ask about brushing, fluoride, and diet.
ADA and AAP guidance recommends a first dental visit by the first birthday or within six months of the first tooth. If your child has not yet been seen, arrange an appointment.
Ask the dentist how often your child should return and whether preventive fluoride treatment is appropriate.
What can be normal during teething?
A new tooth may come through with tender or swollen gums, drooling, or a short period of fussiness. Offer a clean, cool teething ring if it helps.
High fever, marked illness, or persistent symptoms should not automatically be blamed on teething. Seek medical advice if your child seems unwell.
Avoid putting aspirin or numbing products on the gums unless a clinician specifically recommends a suitable product.
When should you contact a dentist or pediatric clinician?
Contact a dentist if you notice a brown or white spot that may be decay, ongoing tooth pain, gum bleeding that concerns you, or difficulty eating because of the mouth.
Get prompt advice for facial or gum swelling, especially if it is worsening or accompanied by fever.
Breathing or swallowing difficulty with facial swelling is an emergency; contact local emergency services.
What can you do today?
Brush your child’s teeth twice today with a soft brush and a rice-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste.
Check that toothpaste is stored out of reach and that your child is not going to bed with a bottle of milk or a sweet drink.
If your toddler has not had dental care, find out how to register or book an appointment in your area.
Ask a dentist about toothpaste strength, fluoride, or teething concerns that are specific to your child.
When to seek support
Some signs need emergency help; other concerns can be discussed with your child’s healthcare team.
- Arrange prompt dental care for suspected tooth decay, persistent tooth pain, or gum or facial swelling.
- Seek urgent medical help for facial swelling with fever, difficulty swallowing, or breathing problems.
Sources used for this guide
- www.ada.org — regional guidance
- American Academy of Pediatrics / HealthyChildren.org — HealthyChildren – Good Oral Health Starts Early – 17 Nisan 2026
English editorial review:
The English text and regional guidance have been checked editorially. This is not an individual clinical assessment.
Luluna provides general parenting information. It does not diagnose conditions or replace your child’s healthcare professional.
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