Toothbrush Timer

Be sure to brush for two minutes, twice a day! Play the video below to know when to stop brushing.

Click here to download the ADA’s monthly brushing calendars to help your children keep track of their oral hygiene routine!

At Fine Dental Care, we adhere to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s recommendations to ensure your child’s oral health starts on the right foot. Our approach to pediatric dental care is designed to support your child’s dental development at every stage, encouraging healthy habits from the very beginning.

From Birth: Establishing Early Dental Hygiene

Even before your child’s first tooth emerges, it’s important to begin dental care. After each feeding, gently wipe your child’s gums with a damp cloth. This simple practice helps remove harmful sugars and bacteria from the gums, setting the stage for healthy teeth later.

First Tooth: Introducing Proper Oral Care

As soon as your child’s first tooth appears, continue to use a wet cloth or gauze to clean it along with the gums. This keeps the new teeth clean and accustoms your child to the sensation of oral care, which can make the transition to a toothbrush easier as more teeth appear.

Ages 2 to 3: Upgrading to Brushing

Most children will have several baby teeth by the age of 2, and this is the perfect time to introduce a small, soft-bristled toothbrush. Use only a smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice) to clean their teeth. Teach them to spit out toothpaste after brushing to prepare them for using larger amounts as they grow. Supervise their brushing to ensure they reach all teeth surfaces effectively.

Ages 3 and Up: Enhancing Brushing Skills

As children grow, they can handle more responsibility in their oral care routine. By age 3, increase the amount of fluoride toothpaste to a pea-sized amount and continue supervising their brushing. It’s important to ensure that they brush for two minutes, spending about 30 seconds on each quadrant of the mouth. This includes brushing the front, back, and chewing surfaces of each tooth. You can use timers or fun videos, like the one we recommend above, to help your child keep track of brushing time.

Get Ongoing Guidance and Support at Fine Dental Care

Every child’s development is unique, and questions are expected. Our experienced dental team at Fine Dental Care is here to assist with any inquiries you have about your child’s dental health. We provide tailored advice and strategies to support the effective dental care of your child at home.

If you are looking for a caring and professional dental practice in Wayne, NJ, that provides compassionate pediatric dentistry, we invite you to visit Fine Dental Care. Contact us today to schedule your child’s appointment and ensure they receive the best start in their oral health journey.