Toothbrush with a safety stopper
A stopper on the handle keeps the brush from going too far into the mouth. Handy when little ones want to hold it themselves.
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Baby toothbrush: when to start and how to choose the best one for your baby
A baby’s first tooth is exciting, and it also raises a question: when do we start brushing, and what kind of toothbrush is right for such a small mouth?
This guide covers when to start, what to look for in a baby toothbrush, and a few tips for brushing calmly. Ask your child’s dentist or doctor about anything specific to your baby.
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Quick answer: what to look for in a baby toothbrush
- An age range on the package that includes your baby (often 0–2 or 6 months and up)
- A very small head that fits a baby’s mouth
- Extra-soft bristles
- A safety shield or stopper, if your baby likes to hold the brush
- A separate, slim brush for the grown-up who does the real brushing
Finishing toothbrush for parents
Long handle and small head make it easy for a grown-up to reach the back teeth.
When should a baby start using a toothbrush?
Many dental groups suggest cleaning the gums even before teeth come in, and starting to brush as soon as the first tooth appears, often around 6 months.
If a toothbrush still feels strange to your baby, you can start with a finger wipe or soft gauze, then add the toothbrush little by little.
Baby tooth wipes
Wrap one around a finger to wipe teeth and gums. Handy before a toothbrush feels OK, or when you are out.
Two brushes: one to hold, one to brush
Babies love to chew on a toothbrush. Letting them hold their own brush helps them get used to it, while a grown-up does the actual cleaning with a second brush.
In our family, when our child was little we used a kids toothbrush with a stopper on the handle, so it could not go too far into the mouth. It made it easier to let our child hold the brush while we watched.
- Only let your baby hold a toothbrush while sitting, never while walking or crawling
- Stay close and watch the whole time
How to brush a baby’s first teeth
- Lay your baby’s head on your lap so you can see into the mouth
- Use a smear of toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice, if your dentist recommends it
- Gently lift the upper lip with a finger and brush the front and back of each tooth
- Keep it short, and finish with a smile and “all clean!”
Kids toothpaste (fruit flavors etc.)
A different flavor can change how much they resist. Check the age range and amount on the package.
Ask your dentist
A first dental visit is often suggested around the first tooth or first birthday. Bring your baby’s toothbrush and ask whether it fits well and how to brush at this age.
Turn brushing into an island adventure
Hamigaki Island is a kids app: during a two-minute brushing adventure, a boat sails around six islands, and lost baby teeth open new places to explore.
See brushing goods by worry →