How to start brushing baby teeth

As a parent, you want to give your baby the best start in life, and that includes good oral hygiene. Even though baby teeth are temporary, they play an important role in your child’s development, helping them to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. Therefore, it’s important to start taking care of your baby’s teeth as early as possible.

In this article, we will explore how to start brushing your baby’s teeth, including when to start, what you will need, and how to make the process as easy and enjoyable as possible. We will also answer some common questions about baby teeth brushing, such as how many times a day to brush, what kind of toothbrush to use, and what to do if your baby doesn’t want to brush.

So, in the end, you’ll have all the information you need to start your baby on the path to good oral health. 

When to Start Brushing Your Baby’s Teeth

Many parents may wonder when to start brushing their baby’s teeth. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Dental Association (ADA), parents should begin cleaning their baby’s teeth as soon as they start to come in. This typically happens around six months of age, but it can vary from baby to baby.

Once your baby’s teeth start to erupt, it’s time to start brushing. It’s important to start early to establish good oral hygiene habits from the beginning. How much you have to worry about brushing your little one’s teeth depends also on the diet or eating habits of your child, does it eat sugary things, does it drink sweetened beverages or juices? Or is it still mainly breastfed?

What Will You Need to Brush Your Infant’s Teeth?

To brush your baby’s teeth, you will need:

• Soft-bristled toothbrush: Look for a toothbrush specifically designed for infants. The bristles should be soft and the head small enough to fit comfortably in your baby’s mouth.
• Water: Use plain water to wet the toothbrush before brushing your baby’s teeth.
• Toothpaste: If your baby is old enough to use toothpaste, apply a small amount to the bristles.

 The AAP recommends using a smear of toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice until your child is three years old. After that, you can increase the amount to a pea-sized amount.

When choosing toothpaste for your baby, make sure to select toothpaste without fluoride that is specifically designed for infants and toddlers. Avoid toothpaste that contains sugar or other sweeteners, which can contribute to tooth decay.

How to Brush Your Baby’s Teeth

Now that you have the necessary items, it’s time to start brushing your baby’s teeth. I would recommend sitting or standing in a comfortable position and holding your baby securely in your lap or on a changing table. See that you get everything together before you sit down or put your baby down. Gently brush your baby’s teeth in circular motions, focusing on the front, back, and top of each tooth. Don’t forget to brush the gums and tongue too.

It’s important to take your time and be gentle when brushing your baby’s teeth. You don’t want to hurt their delicate gums, and you want to make sure you’re thoroughly cleaning all surfaces of their teeth. Once you are done rinse the toothbrush with water and let it air dry.

How Many Times A Day Should You Brush Your Baby’s Teeth?

To ensure good oral hygiene, the AAP and ADA recommend brushing your baby’s teeth twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed. Especially important is brushing before bedtime, as it helps to remove any food particles or bacteria that could cause tooth decay overnight.

If your baby is at high risk for tooth decay, your dentist may recommend more frequent brushing or additional treatments to help protect their teeth. If that is the case you might also want to consider changes in their diet, as this is one of the most common reasons for tooth decay in children. There are also a lot of additional benefits of a diet that is low in artificial or added sugar.

What to Do If Your Baby Doesn’t Like Brushing Teeth?

It’s not uncommon for babies to resist having their teeth brushed, but there are a few things you can do to make the process easier:

• Make it fun: Sing a song or play a game to distract your baby while you brush their teeth.
• Let your baby hold the toothbrush: This can help your baby feel more in control and may make the process more enjoyable.
• Be consistent: Stick to a regular brushing routine, so your baby becomes accustomed to the process.
• Be gentle: Use a gentle touch and don’t force the toothbrush into your baby’s mouth.
• Try different toothbrushes: Your baby may prefer a different type of toothbrush or a different flavor of toothpaste.

If your baby continues to resist having their teeth brushed, don’t give up. Talk to your pediatric dentist for additional tips and strategies.

What If Your Baby’s Teeth Start to Bleed While Brushing?

It’s not uncommon for babies’ gums to bleed a little while brushing, especially if they’re teething. If you notice a little bit of blood, don’t panic. Gently rinse your baby’s mouth with water and continue to brush as usual. If it occurs more often or your little one is in pain an infection could be the cause, talk to your pediatric dentist. They can help determine the cause of the bleeding and provide guidance on how to proceed.

Is It Necessary to Brush Baby’s Teeth after Every Feed?

No, it’s not necessary to brush your baby’s teeth after every feeding. Brushing twice a day, once your baby’s teeth start to come in, is enough.

What Kind of Toothbrush Should My Child Use?

When selecting a toothbrush for your baby, look for one specifically designed for infants with soft bristles and a small head that can fit comfortably in your baby’s mouth. As your baby grows and more teeth come in, you can switch to a toothbrush with a larger head and longer handle.

Overall, brushing your baby’s teeth is an essential part of good oral hygiene. By starting early, being gentle, and being consistent, you can help your baby establish good habits that will last a lifetime. Remember to talk to your pediatric dentist if you have any concerns or questions about your baby’s dental health.

By taking the time to properly care for your baby’s teeth, you can help prevent tooth decay and other dental problems down the road. 

In addition to brushing, it’s important to schedule regular check-ups with your dentist. They can help monitor your baby’s dental health and provide guidance on how to care for their teeth at home.