Good baby oral care begins even before the baby’s first tooth appears. Getting healthy habits right from the beginning establishes strong teeth and gums, and prevents cavities and other dental issues in the future. If you are curious about when to start brushing baby teeth, a visit to a dental clinic in Coquitlam can provide you with customized advice, tips, and reassurance.
Parents frequently inquire about ways to care for baby teeth safely and effectively. Your local dentist can show the best ways to clean your baby’s gums and teeth and give advice for your child’s age. By following these steps, your baby will have a healthy head start.
Why Early Oral Care Is Important
Bacteria can build up on your baby’s gums even before the first tooth shows. Getting an early start on oral care can really help by:
- Keeping those little gums and future teeth healthy.
- Preventing early childhood cavities.
- Teaching good oral hygiene habits from the get-go.
- Make future dental visits easier.
Taking care of your baby’s mouth early on helps lay the groundwork for a lifetime of good dental health.
When to Start Brushing Baby Teeth
Begin oral hygiene at the appropriate age to safeguard your infant’s grin. A quick overview:
- Before teeth: Clean gums gently with a soft, damp cloth after feedings.
- First tooth: Start brushing with a soft baby toothbrush.
- Ages 1–2: Use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (about a grain of rice).
- Ages 2–3: Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste as your child learns to spit.
Starting at the right time helps your baby get used to brushing, making it easier for them to keep healthy teeth.
How to Brush Infant Teeth
Brushing your infant’s teeth properly ensures that they are protected and that toothbrush is safe for them:
- Hold your baby securely in your lap or on a flat surface
- Choose a soft, baby-sized toothbrush
- Gently brush baby teeth and gums in small circles.
- Brush baby teeth twice a day, in the morning and at night.
- Change your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if it starts to wear out.
If you follow these instructions, brushing will be easier and more comfortable for you and your kid.
Additional Baby Oral Care Tips
Other ways to keep your baby’s mouth healthy:
- Avoid letting your baby sleep with a bottle, as milk or juice can cause cavities
- Give water after meals to help clean the mouth
- Limit sugary snacks once your baby starts solids
- Schedule a dental visit around your baby’s first birthday
Doing these along with regular brushing helps keep your baby’s teeth and gums healthy as they grow.
Common Questions Parents Ask
Parents often have many questions when it’s about infant dental care. Some answers include:
- Can I use adult toothpaste? No. Use only a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste made for infants.
- How do I brush a fussy baby? Brush your infant when they are calm, using soft motions while distracting them with a toy or song.
- Do I need to floss? Flossing isn’t needed until two teeth touch. Start gently flossing when that happens.
By following these guidelines, you can maintain good oral hygiene without experiencing any discomfort.
Visiting a Dentist Early
Regular dental checkups are important, even for infants. A dentist near you can:
- Check your baby’s teeth and gums for any problems
- Show the right way to brush and care for teeth
- Keep track of how teeth are growing
- Give preventive care, like fluoride treatments
Early checkups lower the likelihood of tooth problems and help your youngster get used to oral care habits.
Start Healthy Habits Early
Looking after your baby’s mouth from the start promotes healthy teeth and gums. Routine visits and soft brushing help lifelong healthy habits.
At Lafarge Dental, our staff offers guidance, assistance, and gentle care to help your baby’s smile develop healthy and strong. Make your first visit right now to provide the best dental care for your child.