Brush Timer Video

Many parents ask, when should we start brushing? It is actually never too early to start! From birth, you can start desensitizing your child by cleaning the gums with a soft cloth and water or infant gum wipes. Once baby teeth erupt, the AAPD recommends brushing twice daily with a rice grain amount (just a tiny smear) of fluoridated toothpaste on a soft bristled toothbrush until age 3. After age 3, you can increase the amount of fluoridated toothpaste to a pea-size portion. Our pediatric dentist in Brooklyn recommends to start incorporating floss once the spaces between the baby teeth are closed and rinsing with fluoridated mouthwash once your child can spit effectively.  Parental supervision and help with brushing is needed until the child is old enough and has the ability to tie their own shoes. Remember the rule of 2: Brush 2 times a day for 2 minutes. The above video can help gauge how much time they should spend brushing!