A baby’s smile is truly one of the most precious things on the planet! Their big eyes and gummy grins are heartwarming. No doubt, you want to take care of your little one’s precious gums and teeth. But when should good oral hygiene practices start? This blog post explains what you should know.
Caring for Your Infant’s Gums
Oral hygiene should begin long before your baby’s first tooth appears. From the day your child is born, you have the opportunity to promote healthy habits. After each feeding, gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth or a special infant gum brush. This simple action helps remove residual milk or formula and reduces the risk of bacterial growth. It also allows your child to get accustomed to oral care as a normal part of daily routines. You should avoid using toothpaste at this stage, since your baby does not yet have teeth and may swallow it.
Brushing Baby’s First Teeth
Once your baby’s first tooth erupts, you should transition to using a soft-bristled, age-appropriate toothbrush. The first teeth usually appear around six months of age, but this can vary. Use a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice, and gently brush all surfaces of the tooth. It is important to brush twice a day, ideally after breakfast and before bed. Make sure to clean not only the tooth, but also the surrounding gum tissue. You should replace the toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles show signs of wear.
When Should Flossing Begin?
Flossing becomes necessary when your child has two teeth that touch. This typically occurs between ages two and three, but some children develop these teeth earlier or later. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from areas that brushing may not reach. You should use soft, flexible floss made for children and gently guide it between the teeth, being careful not to harm the gums.
When Can Children Brush and Floss for Themselves?
Most children are ready to start brushing and flossing their own teeth around age six or seven, when their motor skills have developed enough for effective cleaning. Even before that, you may let them handle the toothbrush just so they can start learning how to use it. However, supervision remains important until you are sure that your child understands proper oral hygiene techniques.
Talk to a Family Dentist for More Information
Every child’s oral health needs are unique. For guidance tailored to your baby’s individual situation, you should consult a family dentist. The dentist can answer questions about caring for gums, brushing techniques, and starting flossing. Regular dental visits, typically beginning after the first tooth appears or by the child’s first birthday, allow for professional assessment and early detection of any concerns.
Oral hygiene is important right from the first day of your baby’s life. Make it your goal to establish habits that will set your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Austin Amos is a skilled family and children’s dentist in The Colony, TX. He and our team love to work with patients of varying ages, and we are happy to team up with parents to support the formation of good oral hygiene habits. To learn more about us or to request an appointment for your child, contact Ridgepointe Dental at 972-625-4746.