Experts generally recommend that children brush their teeth at least twice daily with toothpaste beginning at age 2 or 3. This helps to break down plaque, a clear film that sticks to teeth and attracts bacteria and sugar. If possible, brushing should take place within five or 10 minutes of eating.  

Initially, parents have to brush children’s teeth for them. A pea-sized amount of toothpaste should be used, and brushing should last for at least three minutes. Toothpaste is available in a variety of flavors that may be appealing to children, such as bubble gum and watermelon. Parents are urged to watch to make sure young children spit out their toothpaste instead of swallowing it. Some young children have a strong aversion to toothpaste. In such cases, it is OK to brush a child’s teeth without using toothpaste, as the brushing and rinsing are the most important parts of cleaning the teeth.

Typically, children gain the dexterity to brush their own teeth sometime between the ages of 7 and 10. Children may want to use a tartar-control toothpaste, which is especially effective at keeping plaque off the teeth.

Children should try to brush after breakfast and after dinner. If possible, it is also a good idea to brush after lunch and after eating sweets. Toothbrushes should be changed every three months. Most dentists provide a free toothbrush during checkups.

Tooth discoloration can also result from use of certain antibiotics, which often contain large amounts of sugar. For this reason, it may be a good idea for children to brush their teeth soon after taking these medications. In addition, the antibiotic tetracycline is not usually prescribed to children under age 8 because permanent tooth discoloration is a common side effect.

Regular flossing also helps to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Flossing should involve moving the floss between each tooth and up to the gum line. This helps dislodge food that brushing cannot remove.