Many parents let children brush alone very early. But young children are not yet dexterous enough to brush clean, so they need help for many years.
- Young children are not dexterous enough to brush clean alone, so parents need to help.
- Many dentists suggest parents brush or re-brush for the child until about 7 to 8 years old.
- Brush twice a day for about two minutes, paying attention to chewing surfaces and back teeth.
- Plaque left on teeth, red bleeding gums or white and brown spots mean it is time for a check.
Why can young children not brush clean alone?
Brushing well takes fine control of the fingers. Young children are still learning to hold a brush, so they often brush too little, missing the inner surfaces and back teeth. If they brush entirely alone, plaque is left behind and decay follows easily. See our article on decay in children.
When can a child brush alone?
There is no fixed age for every child. Many dentists suggest parents brush, or re-brush, their child's teeth until about 7 to 8 years old, when the child's hand skills are better developed, for example when handwriting is fairly good. Before that a child can practise, but parents should go over the teeth again afterwards.
Guiding your child by stage
- Under about 3 years old: parents brush for the child, using a small, soft brush.
- Roughly 3 to 6 years old: let the child practise first, then the parent brushes again, especially the chewing surfaces and back teeth.
- From roughly 6 to 8 years old onward: the child brushes alone while the parent checks and reminds them to brush each area carefully.
Please also watch the six-year molar, which comes in around age 6 and is a permanent tooth that is easy to overlook.
Toothpaste amount and timing
Children should brush twice a day for about two minutes. The amount of toothpaste depends on age, and we have an article on how much toothpaste children need at each age. A parent can turn brushing into a gentle game to keep a child interested.
Signs your child is not brushing well enough
- A yellowish white film of plaque stays on teeth near the gum after brushing.
- The gums are red and bleed easily when brushing.
- White chalky marks or brown spots appear on the teeth.
If you notice these signs, bring your child for a check. You may read when to take a child for a first dental visit. You are welcome to bring your child to Nha Khoa Kỳ Hòa, 266A - 268, 3 Tháng 2 Street, Hòa Hưng Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, during opening hours, or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 (Zalo 082.299.3377) to ask about quieter time slots.
Frequently asked questions
Can a five year old brush alone?
A child can practise, but parents should brush again to make sure it is clean, because at this age children rarely clean every surface.
How do I get my child to like brushing?
Brush together, choose a small soft brush, sing a short song for two minutes and praise your child for doing well.
Should children use an electric toothbrush?
They can if they like it, but choose one made for children and keep an adult helping and checking.