Quick answer
Brush twice a day for two full minutes — morning and before bed — with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste. Below are the six steps we teach at Aloha, plus tips for helping younger kids brush well.
From your friends at Aloha Pediatric Dentistry
Keep your smile bright by brushing the Aloha Way!
When Should Kids’s Brush?
Brush 2 times every day
– Once when you wake up
– Again before bed
Want an even brighter smile? Brush after meals too!
Brush for 2 full minutes each time
Pro tip: Play your favorite 2-minute song!
Tooth Brushing Tips for Parents
Help your child build strong, healthy habits with these simple and effective tips:
- Lead by Example
Let your child see you brushing and flossing regularly. Kids learn best by watching you! - Positive Reinforcement
Celebrate small wins—praise their brushing efforts to boost confidence and keep them motivated. - Build It Into Your Routine
Add brushing times to your family’s daily schedule—morning and night. Consistency matters! - Supervise Until Age 8
Most kids need help brushing effectively until about age 8. Guide their hand or brush together. - Stay on Track with Regular Dental Visits
Schedule check-ups every six months to keep your child’s smile healthy and cavity-free.
6 STEPS TO A CLEAN, BRIGHT SMILE
1. TOOTHPASTE TIME
Ages 2–5: Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste
Under 2: Just a tiny smear
2. BRUSH THE CHEWING SURFACES
Gently scrub the top surfaces of back teeth (molars) with back-and-forth strokes
3. OUTSIDE SURFACES
Use small circles to clean the front of each tooth, down to the gums
4. INSIDE SURFACES
Use gentle circles again—don’t miss the hidden spots behind your teeth!
5. TONGUE TIME!
Brush your tongue to help keep your breath fresh
6. REPEAT FOR TOP & BOTTOM
Make sure every tooth is clean and happy!
Ready to book a first visit?
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Amita Ruehe DDS, MS
Book a first visit
New patients welcome — first visits are paced around your child.
Book onlineSouth Berkeley · (510) 848-6494North Berkeley · (510) 528-1546Orinda · (925) 253-8190This guide is general information for parents, not dental advice for a specific child. If you're worried about your child's teeth, call us.
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