When your child can write, not print, their name, they have the ability to do a thorough job of brushing and flossing. Until then, have them try brushing their teeth first on their own and then help them do a more thorough job after. For flossing, have your child lie down on a bed or floor so you can see what you’re doing and limit their movement. Begin cleaning your child’s mouth before their first tooth appears, and have your child see a dentist by 12 months of age or within 6 months of eruption of the first tooth.