Caring for your baby’s oral health is essential to their overall well-being. Establishing a proper dental care routine is crucial from the moment their first tooth emerges. I’ve been through this process now with four children and I can say, without a doubt, that all of my kiddos have developed excellent oral hygiene practices.
Below, you’ll find dentist recommendations for when to start brushing your baby’s teeth, why it’s important, how to do it effectively, and the health benefits of maintaining good oral hygiene from a very early age.
When Do You Start Brushing Baby Teeth?
You should begin caring for your baby’s oral health before their first tooth appears. Gently wiping your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings can help remove bacteria and prepare them for brushing. Experts recommend this simple step to maintain healthy gums and reduce the risk of early childhood caries (baby bottle tooth decay), which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
Once your baby’s first tooth emerges, typically around 6 months of age, it’s time to start brushing. This early care is critical because tooth decay can begin as soon as teeth appear, and establishing a routine early sets the foundation for lifelong healthy dental habits.
Why You Should Brush Your Baby’s Teeth
Brushing your baby’s teeth is vital for several reasons. First, it helps prevent tooth decay, which can occur as soon as teeth emerge. Early childhood cavities are one of the most common chronic diseases in children, and brushing removes plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that can harm gums and teeth.
Additionally, establishing a brushing routine early helps your child become accustomed to the practice, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene as they grow.
Poor oral health in children has also been linked to other health issues, such as painful infections, trouble eating, delayed speech development, and even increased risk of systemic diseases later in life. I like how Columbia University Irving Medical Center puts it: Early dental care is an investment in your child’s overall health.
How to Brush Your Baby’s Teeth And Obstacles You Might Experience
The right tools and techniques can make brushing your baby’s teeth much easier. Use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush designed specifically for babies, as these are gentle on their delicate gums and emerging teeth. Pair this with a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste, roughly the size of a grain of rice. Fluoride toothpaste is recommended because it strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities.
Hold your baby comfortably in your lap or on a changing table, and gently brush in small circles. Focus on the teeth’ front, back, and chewing surfaces, and don’t forget to brush along the gumline, as this area is prone to plaque buildup.
For babies who can’t spit yet, simply wipe their mouth with a clean cloth to remove excess toothpaste. As noted by Hurst Pediatric Dentistry, making brushing a fun and interactive experience can help keep your baby engaged.
Brushing Frequency And Transitioning To A Toddler Routine
Once a child turns three years old, parents can increase the amount of fluoride toothpaste to a pea-sized amount and begin teaching them to spit out excess toothpaste.
Brushing should continue twice daily—in the morning and before bed—to establish a lifelong healthy habit.
Fluoride and Alternative Options When Brushing Your Baby’s Teeth
Some parents worry about fluoride exposure, but fluoride is crucial for preventing cavities. If fluoride toothpaste isn’t an option (due to preference or allergies), discuss alternatives with a dentist.
A few options that can replace fluoride toothpaste include fluoride-free toothpaste or fluoride varnish treatments. Your dentist can best assess your child’s teeth and gum health and suggest alternatives at your request.
Health Benefits of Brushing Your Baby’s Teeth
Establishing a brushing routine early offers numerous health benefits that affect your baby now and into adulthood.
- Prevents cavities – Early tooth decay can affect the development of permanent teeth.
- Reduces gum disease risk – Healthy gums are essential for strong teeth.
- Protects against infections – Poor oral health has been linked to infections and diseases that impact overall health.
According to Healthline, maintaining healthy gums is just as crucial as brushing teeth. Starting early also helps your child become accustomed to brushing, reducing the risk of dental anxiety and oral health problems later in life.
When to Schedule Baby’s First Dental Visit And Tips For Brushing Baby’s Teeth
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that babies have their first dental checkup by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting.
Why is this important?
- It helps detect potential issues early (e.g., enamel defects, misalignment).
- Parents receive expert guidance on diet, brushing techniques, and fluoride use.
- It builds a positive association with the dentist from an early age.
Taking my children to our family dentist for the first time was an experience that set them up for success. Unlike typical cleanings, our dental hygienist and our dentist gently checked our children’s mouths for issues, and the process was not as invasive as that of a typical dental cleaning. It was the first step in ensuring our babies’ teeth were in good shape, no gum issues were found, and it helped make them feel comfortable visiting the dentist.
Teething And Its Impact On Oral Care And Brushing
Babies often experience discomfort when teething, which can make brushing challenging. Common teething symptoms include drooling, irritability, swollen gums, and a tendency to chew on objects.
To ease teething discomfort while maintaining oral hygiene:
- Use a cold teething ring, a chilled damp washcloth, or give a gentle gum massage.
- Offer teething-friendly foods, such as chilled fruit in a mesh feeder.
- Avoid teething gels with benzocaine, as they can be harmful to infants.
These methods can soothe your baby’s gums while keeping their mouth clean.
Bottle and Pacifier Habits That Affect Oral Health
Prolonged bottle-feeding, especially before bedtime, can increase the risk of baby bottle tooth decay (early childhood caries). Parents should avoid putting babies to sleep with bottles containing milk, formula, or juice, as sugars can pool around teeth and cause decay.
Additionally, pacifiers should not be dipped in honey, sugar, or any sweet substances, and they should be weaned off the pacifier by age two to prevent dental misalignment and speech development issues.
Modeling Good Oral Hygiene For Your Child
Babies and toddlers learn by imitation. Parents brushing their own teeth alongside their child can make brushing a fun, engaging routine. You can also help them engage in other ways.
Here are a few simple ideas to make brushing fun for your baby:
- Sing a song or play a toothbrushing video.
- Use a two-minute timer to ensure proper brushing time.
- Let kids pick their own toothbrush to encourage participation.
We’ve chosen to use the very cool Hum by Colgate Kids Brush in our household. This electric brush provides interactive guides and activities for children. Our older children have graduated to the Hum by Colgate Brush, which provides a snapshot of brushing routines for older children and adults. If you don’t need the activities for your children, the regular Colgate Hum Brush has a rechargeable battery with a charging base station. In contrast, the children’s version requires you to change the batteries manually.
Caring for your baby’s teeth is a simple yet impactful way to ensure their long-term health. Start by cleaning their gums, transition to brushing with the first tooth, and make it a consistent part of their daily routine. By doing so, you’ll protect their teeth and gums and instill healthy habits that will last a lifetime.