Introduction

Oral care starts before the first tooth comes in, and baby teeth need to be protected from decay. Although baby teeth are temporary, they matter for chewing, speaking and saving space for the permanent teeth. A regular care habit set up early brings lifelong benefits.

The First Brush: When and How?

  • Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears; do not wait for a particular age
  • Use a toothbrush made for babies, with a small head and soft bristles
  • Before teeth come in, wiping the gums with a clean, damp cloth is also helpful
  • From the first tooth, use fluoride toothpaste as a thin smear the size of a grain of rice. Do not increase the amount for children under three; brushing should be done by an adult

How to Brush

  • Brush twice a day, especially before nighttime sleep
  • Hold your baby in your lap and gently support their head
  • Clean all tooth surfaces with small, gentle movements
  • Turning brushing into a game and a routine makes cooperation easier

The First Dental Checkup

Plan the first dental checkup within six months after the first tooth comes in, and by the first birthday at the latest. An early checkup is valuable for assessing the risk of decay and building good care habits.

Watch Out for Bedtime Bottle Tooth Decay

  • Avoid putting your baby to sleep with a bottle (milk, formula or a sugary drink) in their mouth
  • Clean the mouth after the last feed before sleep
  • Long contact between the drink in the bottle and the teeth can cause decay in the front teeth
  • Do not leave the bottle in your baby's mouth or bed while they sleep. In the first six months, do not give extra water unless a health professional recommends it; do not cut out needed night feeds just for the sake of dental health

When Should You See a Dentist?

Ask for a checkup if there are white or brown spots on the teeth, pain, swollen gums or mouth sores that affect feeding. If facial swelling and fever occur together, get your baby seen the same day.

Summary

Oral care is a simple but important habit that begins with the first tooth. A soft brush, regular cleaning, protection from bedtime bottle tooth decay and timely dental checkups lay the foundation for a healthy smile.

Sources

This app is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your doctor or pediatrician for decisions about your baby's health.