The first year of your child’s life is filled with countless milestones. The first time they hold a bottle, stand up on their own, and take their first steps are all classic moments to document and put in the baby book. But among all these exciting milestones is another important first that you may feel unsure about: the first time brushing their teeth! Establishing this habit at the right time will pave the way for your child to have healthy teeth and gums for life – and even help their first visit with a pediatric dentist go a lot smoother! But should you wait to start brushing until they get their first tooth or start even earlier? Keep reading to find out!
When Should You Start Brushing Your Baby’s Teeth?
You may be surprised to hear it, but you should actually start cleaning your baby’s gums each day before their first tooth comes in. This removes residual sugars and bacteria from their mouth and also reduces soreness from teething.
Not to mention that it gets them used to the sensation and routine of having their mouth cleaned, which makes it much easier to start brushing when their teeth come in later.
You can either use a clean, damp washcloth or an extra-soft “teething” toothbrush for this. Use lukewarm or tepid water and short, soft strokes on their gum tissue.
When their first tooth comes in, you can begin using a very small smear of children’s toothpaste, or a rice-sized amount, on a toothbrush designed for their age.
As a side note to brushing, make sure to avoid putting your baby to sleep with a bottle that has anything other than water in it. Juice, formula and even plain milk all have sugars that will cause severe, rapid tooth decay on the front teeth.
This condition, called “baby bottle tooth decay,” can have serious consequences for your child’s smile, but the good news is that it’s completely preventable!
What Are the Benefits of Starting Good Brushing Habits Early?
Not only will starting to brush early get your infant accustomed to the daily routine of having their teeth and gums cleaned, it will make their first dental visit easier as well.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that you schedule the first dental checkup for your baby at age one. This way, a pediatric dentist can make sure that everything is developing normally and give you recommendations about diet, oral care products and specific tips on home hygiene.
Spending some time establishing good dental care from the start is well worth the time and effort. After all, healthy habits now will set your child up to have a great smile for life!
About the Author
Dr. Lily is a pediatric dentist who is passionate about providing outstanding, comprehensive dental care to children. She makes prevention a priority and always helps her patients (and their parents) learn the best way to care for their teeth at home. If you have any questions about brushing your child’s teeth, she can be reached via her website or at (469) 606-3460.