Birth to 8 months
First baby teeth appear.
Caregivers should clean gums with a soft, damp towel once a day, brush teeth with fluoride toothpaste and a soft toothbrush, and floss between teeth that touch. Regularly check teeth and gums for white spots or discoloration, and visit your child’s dentist if you see any.
Ages 2-3
All baby teeth grow in.
Children can start brushing their own teeth with caregiver supervision. Caregivers should continue to floss children’s teeth for them once a day.
Age 6
Six-year molars appear.
These first permanent teeth grow in at the back of the mouth behind baby teeth, but do not replace them. Children should take extra care to brush them on all sides.
Age 6 and older
Permanent teeth replace baby teeth.
Caregivers should continue to floss children’s teeth and supervise toothbrushing until age 8.