Your infant’s baby teeth can erupt from the gums as early as 4 months after birth, though many babies won’t start to see any development until around their 6th month. Brushing baby teeth from the start is crucial for maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing cavities.
While it’s exciting for parents to see those first few teeth come in, you may be wondering some important questions. For example, “When am I supposed to start brushing my baby’s teeth?” or “What are the best ways to go about brushing my infant’s teeth?”
Well, look no further cavity-conscious moms and dads! Today, we’re going to go over the basics of brushing baby teeth based on suggestions from dentists and experts. When it’s all said and done you’ll be brushing those baby snaggers with ease!
Let’s start with the basics, shall we?
When to start brushing baby teeth?
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Aura Caldera, DDS, a dentist based out of New York/New Jersey, suggests “Before your baby’s first tooth erupts, you should get in the habit of wiping their gums with a soft, wet washcloth or baby finger toothbrush, especially after feedings and at bedtime.”
Once a baby’s first tooth erupts, parents should begin to brush twice a day. Ideally, once in the morning (after breakfast) and once at night (after dinner). Also, make sure that no meals follow the last brushing session of the day.
Best method for brushing baby teeth
“Choose a soft-bristled brush with a small head and a comfortable handle,” Caldera recommends. “Use only a tiny rice size smear of toothpaste, and brush gently around your child’s teeth, both front and back.”
Be sure to be mindful of the back teeth and lower teeth where bacteria often accumulates, she adds.
Choosing the right toothpaste
Before you pick a toothpaste, you should check if your baby’s vitamin consists of fluoride. If so, then opt for a non-fluoridated training toothpaste. If not, Robert Delarosa, DDS, a Baton Rouge-based pediatric dentist and the former president of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, recommends using just the rice-size amount of standard fluoridated toothpaste.
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The importance of flossing
Delarosa says that as soon as teeth begin to touch each other, parents need to start flossing. To make the process a bit easier, he recommends using the “claw shaped” types of flossers. If you’re having trouble envisioning this type of tool, here’s a look. These types of contraptions make it easier to maneuver through an infant’s mouth, and should make it easier to clean their teeth.
Helping them cope with process
Babies don’t always take too kindly to the process of brushing and flossing. However, it’s a necessary evil, so to say. That’s why parents have to work hard to help babies cope with the process.
“It helps to sing or play a song that they like to keep them distracted,” Delarosa suggests. “Also, if your baby loves the bath, you can brush and floss then while she’s splashing around and playing.”
First dentist appointment
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, parents should schedule baby’s first dentist appointment around their first birthday.
Dr. Caldera claims, “Making a dental exam part of their yearly well visits helps to establish a dental home, which is important for preventing cavities, as well as learning about your baby’s growth, development, and oral health.”
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Additional Tips for Brushing Baby Teeth
- Make it Fun: Turn brushing baby teeth into a fun activity. Sing songs or tell a story while brushing to keep your baby engaged.
- Be Consistent: Establish a routine so that your baby gets used to the practice. Consistency is key in developing good oral hygiene habits.
- Monitor for Changes: Keep an eye on your baby’s teeth and gums for any signs of discomfort or irregularities. Consult a pediatric dentist if you notice anything unusual.
- Regular Dental Visits: Schedule your baby’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears, whichever comes first.
By following these guidelines, brushing baby teeth will become a simple and effective part of your daily routine, ensuring your little one maintains a healthy smile from the start.
This article was based on a post from Momtastic
Additional information written by Jobelle Macayan
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