According to the recommendations of the American Dental Association (ADA), babies need to have their teeth brushed as soon as they erupt.
How do you do that?
Newborn to First Tooth
Make it a practice from day one to clean your infant’s mouth with a soft cloth. A clean washcloth dampened with warm water is perfect. Wrap the cloth around your forefinger and gently swab baby’s gums and the inside of the cheeks. Do this after each feeding.
After the First Tooth
Now it’s time to start actually brushing.
Choose a baby toothbrush with a small head, large handle, and soft bristles.
Put a smear of toothpaste on the bristles. This should be such a tiny amount that there’s hardly anything there. It will be just enough to strengthen your child’s tooth enamel with fluoride, but not enough to cause trouble if a little is swallowed.
It doesn’t take long to brush one or two teeny baby teeth! The important thing is that the teeth are getting a little bit of fluoride and your baby is getting used to the habit of brushing.
Your baby may even enjoy grabbing the toothbrush and noshing on it herself just because it feels good on teething gums. That’s fine, as long as you make sure to sneak in a proper brushing, as well.
Brush baby’s teeth like this twice a day for the start of a healthy smile for life!
Once your baby has their first teeth coming in, it’s time to bring them for the first dental visit. You’ll find the best pediatric dental care in Dallas, right here at Preston Sherry Dental Associates. Call us today to plan your appointment.