Tips for Brushing Your Baby’s Teeth: A Guide for Parents

When to Start Brushing Your Baby’s Teeth

You should start caring for your baby’s oral health even before their first tooth emerges. Wiping your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings can help remove bacteria and establish good oral hygiene habits early on. Once the first tooth appears, typically around six months of age, it’s time to introduce a toothbrush.

How to Brush Your Baby’s Teeth

1. Choose the Right Toothbrush

• Use a soft-bristled, infant-sized toothbrush with a small head and an easy-to-grip handle.
• Some parents prefer using a finger brush designed for babies.

2. Use the Right Amount of Toothpaste

• For babies under 3 years old, use a smear (about the size of a grain of rice) of fluoride toothpaste.
• After age 3, you can increase to a pea-sized amount.

3. Position Your Baby Comfortably

• Lay your baby down on a flat surface or cradle them in your arms with their head tilted back slightly.
• For older babies, you can sit them on your lap facing a mirror to help them see what’s happening.

4. Be Gentle but Thorough

• Use soft, circular motions to brush all surfaces of the teeth and along the gumline.
• Pay extra attention to the back teeth where cavities often develop first.

5. Make It Fun!

• Sing a song, use a special toothbrush, or let your baby hold a toothbrush while you brush their teeth.
• Establish a routine so your baby becomes familiar with the process.

How Often Should You Brush?

• Brush your baby’s teeth twice a day—once in the morning and once before bedtime.
• As your baby grows, encourage them to participate and develop independence with brushing.

Additional Tips for Healthy Baby Teeth

• Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle containing milk or juice to prevent tooth decay.
• Schedule your baby’s first dental visit by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears.
• Encourage drinking water after meals to help rinse away food particles.

Final Thoughts

Brushing your baby’s teeth is an important habit that sets the foundation for strong and healthy teeth. With patience, consistency, and a little creativity, you can make brushing an enjoyable part of your daily routine. If you have any concerns about your baby’s oral health, don’t hesitate to ask your pediatric dentist for guidance!

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