How Should I Clean My Baby’s Teeth?

To ensure proper dental care for your baby in the future, establishing a regular oral hygiene routine for your baby early on is strongly recommend. Neglecting your baby’s teeth could lead to tooth decay, cavities, and cause permanent teeth to grow in crooked. As soon as the first tooth begins surfacing through, it’s wise to start the teeth cleaning process twice a day.

Some babies are even born with teeth! However, most begin growing them at around six months and their milk teeth are generally grown in by the time they’re 2 1/2. Healthy baby teeth set the stage for chewing more easily, speaking more clearly, and holding space for the permanent teeth that will grow in as they grow up.

How to clean my baby’s teeth?

You can find baby toothbrushes with soft nylon bristles at most drugstores. Parents also have the option of wrapping gauze around their finger, putting just a little bit of toothpaste on it, and gently rubbing it around their baby’s teeth. Having your baby on your lap facing you will allow you to reach the teeth with more ease.Their teeth are gentle so be mindful of that as you brush with small gentle circular motions. It’s best to focus on the area where the teeth meet the gum. When you’re done brushing, allow the baby to spit out excess toothpaste. Avoid rinsing with water as it’s recommended leaving a little bit of toothpaste residue for optimal results. Giving the baby his/her own toothbrush to hold and watching you brush your teeth is often helpful to get them used to the idea.

What kind of toothpaste is best for my baby?

It is important that you use totally safe toothpaste that will not cause your baby any harm if it is swallowed accidentally. Toothpaste containing fluoride is suggested because it makes your baby’s teeth more resistant to acids and harmful bacteria that cause tooth decay. Your baby can also get fluoride from water, and supplements.

Some recommendations to get your baby’s teeth on track:

1. Only offer breast-milk, formula milk, or cooled boiled water as drinks for your baby.
2. Starting at about 6 months, allow your baby to drink from a beaker
3. Avoid sugar, fruit juices, and carbonated beverages
4. Choose sugar-free versions of medicines.
5. A healthy balanced diet of savory sugar-free foods is recommended.
6. When using prepared baby foods, not only make sure they are free of sugars and sweeteners, but also don’t contain lactose, fructose, and glucose as they are just as harmful.

When should I start taking my baby to the dentist?

It’s recommended that you take your child to the dentist when their first tooth surfaces or by their first birthday. Make sure you tell the dentist what type of fluoride treatments your baby has had At Lighthouse Family dentistry, we feel that good oral hygiene starts early and we want to establish an ongoing relationship with our patients and work with them throughout their lifetime. We would be happy to answer any questions that you may have about baby teeth cleaning and when you should bring your child in so we can ensure them a lifetime of smiles! To schedule an appointment, call us at (831) 373-0478.