Toothbrushing Tips Follow-Up Guide

Understanding Toothbrushing and Oral Health

What is it?

Brushing your child's teeth is essential for preventing cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems. It removes plaque, prevents tooth decay, and builds lifelong healthy habits.

🌟 General Guidelines

• Brush teeth twice daily for 2 minutes each time.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush appropriate for the child’s age.
• Supervise brushing until around age 7–8, when they can reliably spit and brush thoroughly.

Oral Health at Home

✅ You can manage your child's oral health at home as long as:

• Teeth are brushed twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
• No pain, swelling, or persistent bleeding is present.
• Your child eats, drinks, and plays normally.
• You can assist or supervise brushing for their age.

How to Brush at Home 

Ages 6 months to <3 years

• Small, soft-bristled infant toothbrush.
• Smear (grain-of-rice size) of fluoride toothpaste.
• Gently brush all tooth and gum surfaces.
• Create a routine: after breakfast and before bed.
• Use playful, comforting language about teeth.

Ages 3–6 years

• Pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
• Child brushes first; adult finishes.
• If unable to spit, tilt head forward and let toothpaste dribble out — do not rinse.

Ages 6–10 years

• Encourage independence but supervise.
• Brush for 2 minutes, twice daily.
• Promote spitting, not rinsing.

Teaching & Engagement Tips

• Use fun terms: “chasing sugar bugs,” “making teeth shiny.”
• Break down the steps: Wet brush → Apply toothpaste → Brush → Spit (don’t rinse) → Rinse brush.
• Make it fun: sing a 2-minute song, use brushing apps, lights, or music.
• Offer a reward chart for consistency.

Additional Oral Health Reminders

• Avoid sticky snacks and juice between meals.
• Visit a dentist by age 1, then every 6 months.
• Use fluoride toothpaste—it's important for oral health—but supervise teeth brushing until your child can reliably spit it out.
• Replace toothbrush every 3–4 months or after illness.

When to Contact Poppins 

📱 Contact us again when:

• You have questions about your child’s brushing technique or frequency.
• Your child resists brushing consistently.
• You notice early signs of decay (white spots, discoloration).

When to Visit Your Pediatrician or Dentist

🩺 Go to an in-person appointment when:

• Your child has persistent bad breath despite regular brushing.
• There is visible decay, pain, or swelling.
• Gums are bleeding regularly when brushing.

If your gut tells you something is wrong, don't hesitate to reach out. Need help? Reconnect with our on-demand team of medical staff available 24/7.