Uzm. Dr. Hasan Keleş- April 11, 2026
- 2 min read
- Oral and Dental Health
- — reads
A healthy smile is shaped by the right habits that begin with the first tooth. Turning toothbrushing into an early and enjoyable routine greatly reduces the future need for cavities treatment and dental work. In this article, we cover age-appropriate brushing, the correct amount of toothpaste, and the first dental visit.
When to Begin?
- Before teeth erupt: After feeding, you can wipe the gums with a clean, damp cloth.
- From the first tooth onward: Brush twice a day (especially before bedtime at night) with a soft children's toothbrush.
The Correct Amount of Toothpaste
Fluoride is the most effective substance for preventing decay; using the right amount is safe:
- Ages 0-3: a rice-grain amount of fluoride toothpaste
- Ages 3-6: a lentil (pea) sized amount
- The child should not swallow the toothpaste, and the excess should be spat out; brushing should be done under adult supervision.
Making Brushing Enjoyable
- Brush together; children learn through imitation.
- Use a song, an hourglass, or fun 2-minute routines.
- Letting the child choose the brush and try "doing it themselves" boosts motivation (you should still do the follow-up brushing yourself).
- Do not use brushing as a means of punishment or coercion.
The First Dental Visit
The first dental check-up is recommended after the first tooth erupts, by age 1 at the latest. This visit both catches possible decay early and helps the child get used to the dental environment. Regular check-ups and fluoride applications are the foundation of preventing decay. For decay risk and nutrition, you can read our article on baby-tooth decay and bottle decay.
For the transition to oral care during the teething period, our guide on teething in babies is also helpful. In Şahinbey, Gaziantep, you can benefit from our well-child monitoring service to track your child's overall development.
📅 Book an appointment for a child health check-up
This content is for informational purposes; consult a dentist for dental care and your pediatrician for general health. — Uzm. Dr. Hasan Keleş
Frequently Asked Questions
Cleaning should start twice a day from the moment the first tooth erupts. Even before teeth come in, the gums can be wiped with a clean, damp cloth.
A rice-grain amount of fluoride toothpaste is enough up to age 3, and a lentil (pea) sized amount between ages 3 and 6. After brushing, the child should not swallow the toothpaste; the excess should be spat out.
The first dental check-up is recommended after the first tooth erupts, by age 1 at the latest. An early visit is the best way to prevent decay and to help the child get used to the dentist.
📅 Book an appointment for your child's health
Book an online appointment with Specialist Dr. Hasan Keleş in Gaziantep — instant confirmation.
Book an Appointment Online
