Teaching your child how to brush their teeth is vital, as this is one of the most important skills you can show them. You can start practicing good oral hygiene with your child in babyhood, even before their teeth pop up. Not sure how? No worries — we’re happy to guide you.
The Best Time to Begin Cleaning Your Kid’s Teeth
Do you see a tiny white nub peeping through your baby’s gums? If so, it’s time to buy a soft-bristle baby toothbrush. You’ll want to start brushing your baby’s teeth when the first one appears. Babies usually get their first tooth around 6 months, and it’s typically a bottom front tooth.
To clean your baby’s tooth, follow these steps:
- Put a speck of toothpaste on the toothbrush.
- Lay your baby down so that you can use one hand to move their lip and the other to brush.
- Gently brush the front and back of the tooth and along the gum line.
Brush your baby’s first tooth at least twice a day.
When Should I Start Brushing My Baby’s Gums?
You can start cleaning your baby’s gums just a few days after birth. The sooner you start, the better, because you’ll remove bacteria from their mouth and help prevent cavities. All you need to do is take a damp, clean washcloth or terrycloth finger cot and gently wipe your baby’s gums.
When Should Kids Start Brushing Their Own Teeth?
Kids can typically start brushing their own teeth around the ages of 6 to 8. Until then, you’ll have to help. As soon as your child can hold a toothbrush on their own, you can let them practice brushing their teeth. Be sure to follow up to ensure they didn’t miss any spots.
Schedule Your Child’s First Dental Appointment Today
Around your child’s first birthday, it’s time to schedule their first dental appointment. Baby bottle tooth decay, also called nursing caries, can happen with your baby’s first teeth and lead to issues down the road. A pediatric dentist will identify and treat tooth decay in its early stages. They’ll also recommend tips for keeping your baby’s gums and teeth healthy and answer any questions you may have.
At Sprout Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we understand that infant and toddler oral care can feel like uncharted territory, and we’re here to help. As pediatric dentists with kids of our own, we know where you’re coming from and are committed to helping your child enjoy lifelong oral health.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our pediatric dental services.
Dr. Dana grew up in Portland and went to Temple University in Philadelphia, PA for dental school. She then moved to Anchorage, AK for her residency in Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Dana takes a holistic approach to pediatric dentistry & is able to use her own parenting experience to sympathize and understand each family’s unique dynamic.
