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How to Protect Your Child's Teeth from Ages 0 to 12 (Complete Guide Based on Official Recommendations)

Comment protéger les dents de votre enfant de 0 à 12 ans (Guide complet basé sur les recommandations officielles)

Introduction

A child’s oral health begins with the eruption of the first tooth.
Cavities remain one of the most common chronic diseases in children according to theWorld Health Organization (WHO).

This guide brings together official recommendations and best practices to effectively protect your child’s teeth from ages 0 to 12.


1️⃣ Ages 0 to 2: the fundamentals

When should brushing start?

As soon as the first tooth appears.

TheAmerican Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends:

  • Daily cleaning from the first tooth

  • Use a very small amount of fluoride toothpaste (rice-sized smear)

⚠️ Fluoride should be used according to local recommendations.

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Best practices

  • Soft brush suitable for infants

  • Stable position (on the parent’s lap)

  • No sugary bottles at bedtime


2️⃣ Ages 3 to 6: learning and gradual independence

Which toothbrush should you choose?

According to theFrench Union for Oral Health:

  • Soft bristles

  • Small head suited to the child’s mouth

  • Supervision required

Electric toothbrushes can be introduced around age 3, under supervision.


Why is supervision crucial?

Fine motor coordination isn’t fully developed before ages 6–8.

A child may think they’re brushing properly… without effectively removing plaque.


3️⃣ Ages 6 to 12: cavity prevention and independence

Main goal: prevent cavities

According to theCenters for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste significantly reduces the risk of cavities.

Best practices:

  • 2 brushings per day

  • At least 2 minutes

  • Periodic parental checks

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4️⃣ Manual or electric toothbrush: which to choose?

A systematic review published by the Cochrane Collaboration indicates that oscillating electric toothbrushes can reduce plaque and gingivitis more than manual brushes.

I can’t confirm that all technologies (notably U-shaped designs) have the same level of scientific evidence, as data are limited for some specific models.

The choice depends on:

  • The child’s motivation

  • Consistency

  • Brushing quality


5️⃣ Common parent mistakes

  • ❌ Letting a child brush alone too early

  • ❌ Using too much toothpaste

  • ❌ Neglecting baby teeth

  • ❌ Giving sugary drinks at bedtime

Baby teeth are essential for proper future dental development.


6️⃣ Ideal evening routine (simple model)

  1. Brush for 2 minutes

  2. Floss if teeth are close together

  3. No food after brushing

  4. Water only

Consistency matters more than perfection.

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7️⃣ When should you see a dentist?

TheAmerican Dental Association recommends:

  • First visit before age 1 or within 6 months after the first tooth appears.

Then:

  • At least 1 annual visit

  • According to the practitioner’s recommendations


8️⃣ Warning signs to watch for

  • White or brown spots

  • Sensitivity to cold

  • Persistent bad breath

  • Pain when chewing

If in doubt, consult a healthcare professional.


Conclusion

A child’s dental health rests on 3 pillars:

  1. Consistency

  2. Parental supervision

  3. Age-appropriate tools

A structured routine from an early age greatly reduces the risk of cavities and future complications.

KidSmile Pro™ – The Smart Toothbrush that Makes Brushing Fun and 99,9 % Effective!

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