Baby teeth matter for eating, speech, and space for permanent teeth. Decay in baby teeth is not “unimportant,” so brushing starts when the first tooth appears.
How much toothpaste
- under age 3 — a smear about the size of a grain of rice;
- ages 3 to 6 — a pea-size amount;
- an adult puts the paste on and makes sure the child spits the extra;
- mouth rinses are usually not needed for young children unless advised.
How to help
Until motor skills are solid, the child brushes with an adult: first they try, then the adult finishes. Do not scold for mistakes. Keep a short, repeatable morning and evening routine.
When to see a dentist
Dark spots, white spots at the gum, pain, refusing to chew, a dental injury, or frequent sweet drinks are reasons to book. AIOral does not replace a pediatric dentist.
Sources: ADA, AAPD, HealthyChildren/AAP.