At RADIUS, we know that a bright, healthy smile begins early — and the care we give our little ones at each stage of their growth plays a huge role in their lifelong oral health. Every age comes with exciting milestones for teeth and gums, and knowing what to expect helps parents guide their children toward the best habits.
We’re here to walk you through what happens in your child’s mouth at each key age bracket and how RADIUS products are designed to support every stage naturally, safely, and effectively.
0–6 Months: The Foundation Stage
Even before teeth appear, oral care begins. Newborns are born with all their primary teeth hidden beneath the gums. Although you might not see them yet, it’s important to keep the mouth clean to create a healthy environment for those first teeth.
What’s happening:
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Primary teeth (also called baby teeth) are forming under the gums.
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The mouth is building beneficial bacteria that contribute to a healthy oral microbiome.
Oral care tips:
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Gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings.
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Avoid letting your baby fall asleep with a bottle to prevent future issues.
At this stage, RADIUS offers a gentle transition when your baby is ready for their first toothbrush. Our RADIUS Pure Baby Toothbrush is made specifically for babies 6 months and up, featuring super-soft, vegetable-based bristles and a tiny, easy-to-handle design perfect for delicate mouths.
6–12 Months: First Teeth Appear
Around six months, most babies begin teething — though the timing can vary. The lower central incisors are typically the first to show, followed by the upper central incisors.
What’s happening:
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Baby’s first teeth are erupting through the gums.
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Teething discomfort can lead to fussiness and an urge to chew.
Oral care tips:
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Introduce a toothbrush like the RADIUS Pure Baby Toothbrush to gently clean new teeth.
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Brush teeth twice daily with water — no toothpaste is needed yet unless recommended by your pediatrician.
This is the perfect time to introduce brushing as a fun and positive part of your baby’s routine. Let them hold the toothbrush and get used to the feel.
1–2 Years: More Teeth and More Brushing
By the time your child turns one, they may have 4 to 8 teeth. During this stage, molars may start erupting, making cleaning even more important.
What’s happening:
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More teeth continue to erupt, including first molars.
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Children are developing motor skills, allowing them to start “helping” with brushing.
Oral care tips:
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Continue to brush twice daily.
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Use a tiny smear (about the size of a grain of rice) of toothpaste if your pediatrician recommends it.
The RADIUS Totz® Toothbrush is specially designed for toddlers 18 months and up. With a smooth, tapered handle perfect for small hands and extra-soft, BPA-free bristles, it makes brushing safe, easy, and comfortable for growing smiles.
2–5 Years: Full Set of Baby Teeth
By the age of three, most kids have a full set of 20 primary teeth. This period is key for teaching good brushing habits and introducing flossing.
What’s happening:
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Full eruption of primary teeth.
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Kids are developing the dexterity to start brushing with supervision.
Oral care tips:
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Brush with a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.
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Start gently flossing between any teeth that touch.
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Encourage brushing for two full minutes.
For this stage, the RADIUS Totz® Plus Toothbrush is ideal. Designed for ages 3 years and up, it features a longer handle and ultra-soft bristles to support independent brushing while still being gentle enough to protect young enamel and gums.
If your little one is ready for flossing, RADIUS’s commitment to gentle care continues with products that encourage building flossing habits safely and easily.
6–12 Years: Transition to Permanent Teeth
The “mixed dentition” phase is when children start losing their baby teeth and permanent teeth begin to appear.
What’s happening:
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Baby teeth start falling out, making way for adult teeth.
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Permanent molars (first molars) erupt around age six.
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Children gain more independence with oral care, but still need guidance.
Oral care tips:
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Ensure thorough brushing and flossing to protect new permanent teeth.
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Emphasize the importance of brushing the back molars where cavities often start.
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Consider using products that make brushing exciting to keep engagement high.
The RADIUS Kidz® Toothbrush, made for ages 6 and up, offers a kid-friendly, comfortable design with soft, vegetable-based bristles that clean thoroughly without harshness. It’s just the right size for growing mouths and promotes proper brushing technique.
For kids who are ready, using floss daily is essential to protecting those brand-new permanent teeth from plaque and decay.
12+ Years: Preparing for a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles
By age 12 or 13, most kids have all their permanent teeth, except for the wisdom teeth. At this point, teens should be capable of managing their own oral care routines — but guidance is still important.
What’s happening:
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Final primary teeth fall out.
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Permanent teeth, including second molars, have erupted.
Oral care tips:
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Reinforce consistent brushing and flossing habits.
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Discuss the impact of diet and lifestyle choices on oral health.
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Regular dental visits become even more critical during the teen years.
Older kids and teens can transition to using RADIUS’s Source™ Toothbrush for a sustainable, high-performance brushing experience. With replaceable heads and an eco-friendly handle, the Source is perfect for environmentally-conscious families looking to build responsible habits.
Teens who are passionate about sustainability will appreciate that RADIUS uses upcycled natural materials like wood and recycled paper to craft toothbrush handles, staying true to our commitment to better oral health and a better planet.
Supporting Kids’ Oral Health Every Step of the Way
At RADIUS, we design each of our products with care, safety, and effectiveness in mind — because we believe oral health should grow naturally alongside your child.
Whether you’re wiping tiny gums, celebrating a first lost tooth, or helping your teen find a toothbrush that fits their values, we’re here with products that make the journey healthier, safer, and a little more fun.
Every stage of your child's oral development is important. By using thoughtfully designed tools like the Pure Baby Toothbrush, Totz® Toothbrush, Totz® Plus Toothbrush, and Kidz® Toothbrush, you can feel confident that you’re giving your child the gentle, effective support they need — while teaching habits that will last a lifetime.
Healthy habits start young — and we’re proud to be part of every milestone, every smile, and every step.