How to Brush Baby Teeth: Oral Hygiene for Babies
The first walk, first word, first smile- every first of your child excites you, even their first brush. You might be a little confused over when you should start cleaning your baby’s teeth or what procedures you have to follow.
When you see the first signs of a child’s baby teeth poking through the gums, your heart melts. But do you know the best oral care practices for maintaining a child’s dental health in the years to come? This blog will be your guide throughout your baby’s dental care routine!
How To Brush Baby Teeth
Before you have any teeth, brushing your baby’s gums may be as simple as using a washcloth and water or as complex as using a finger brush and water. It’s essential to clean the gums thoroughly and under your lips, so use a soft cloth.
When your kid has teeth but isn’t yet able to spit out of their mouth, brush their teeth and gums gently in circular motions to keep their teeth and gums in good condition. Using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste (the rice grain size) is acceptable for youngsters under 3.
Let the toothpaste flow out of your child’s mouth as you assist them in angling their jaw down. Then, encourage your child to spit out the toothpaste as soon as they can do so without assistance.
According to the American Dental Association, fluoride toothpaste is safe and beneficial even for youngsters. It’s critical, though, to follow the dosage instructions strictly. Fluoride should have no detrimental effects if it is ingested at this level. If you eat more than this, you may get a stomach ache. However, fluoride can harm tooth enamel over time; therefore, it’s best to wait before introducing it until the first tooth has erupted above the gum line. Until then, all you need is water and a washcloth or finger brush.
How To Choose a Toothbrush
They may not be ready for a traditional toothbrush when their teeth start in. This is when you can get creative with your brushing. You can use a finger brush or cleaning wipes to help. You can also use a clean, damp washcloth to get rid of the dirt. In either case, the best infant toothbrush should have these things:
- A small head that fits in your baby’s mouth.
- It must be a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- It doesn’t have BPA.
It’s also good for babies who don’t have any teeth yet or are about to get their first set of teeth. Silicone finger brushes are also good for these babies. There are usually silicone brushes with soft and thick bristles made of silicone. The handles are generally also made of silicone. Silicone brushes are usually more gentle and make good teething toys, but they can also be rough. However, as more teeth come in, silicone brushes aren’t as good at preventing plaque as nylon-bristled toothbrushes. Keep this in mind as your child gets more teeth. This is important to remember.
When To Start Brushing Baby Teeth
When a baby’s first tooth emerges from the gums, it’s time to start brushing. After meals and before going to bed, gently wipe the front teeth and the front of the tongue with a clean, moist towel, gauze pad, or finger brush.
Pediatric dentists recommend brushing your teeth with water and a spread of fluoride toothpaste the size of a rice grain. There should be no more than three rows of bristles on a brush (a pediatric dentist or your pharmacist can help you find the finger brushes and a proper baby toothbrush).
Throw away any toothbrushes that have worn down to the point of becoming unusable (or that are more than two to four months old because mouth bacteria can begin to build up).
How To Brush Baby Teeth When They Don’t Like It
They may be particularly reluctant to get their teeth cleaned due to teething discomfort. However, if brushing your teeth becomes a daily routine, here are some ideas to keep their mouth clean:
- If your baby does not enjoy it, you may want to try using a soft washcloth and gentle pressure instead of the brush.
- All it takes is a slight diversion to make cleaning their teeth bearable for some babies. Sing a favorite song or make up a goofy rendition of a classic while brushing baby’s teeth. Create a particular tooth brushing song. You may get a tiny-toothed smile in return.
- Show them how to do it. When children see their parents cleaning their teeth, it encourages them to do the same. “It’s time for you, Mom! You’ve had your turn!” Allow them to express themselves: The toothbrush or finger brush is likely to pique your baby’s interest. Allow them to handle the brush and inspect it at their speed to pique her interest. They may even put the brush in her mouth when they get older without any prompting.
Rewarding constancy and improvement in cleaning their teeth might motivate a little additional effort and a better mood at the end of the day! These can be modified in any way that makes the most sense for you and your child.
Read more: Best Toothbrush for Kids and What Age To Start Using A Real Toothbrush
Why Choose Junior Smiles of Stafford?
Our Stafford, VA team is well-versed in working with clients of various ages and backgrounds. They’ll take the time to get to know you and your family’s requirements, and they’ll work with you to design a treatment plan that suits your schedule. Sealants and fluoride treatments are just two of the many preventative care options we provide to keep your mouth healthy.
About Us
Visiting Junior Smiles of Stafford means you’re in good hands when it comes to receiving high-quality care. Your child’s dental health improves with each visit, ensuring a brighter smile for years to come. We adhere to the ADA and AAPD’s guidelines for best practices.
Where Are We Located?
Phone: (540) 699-2441
Fax: (540) 699-2464
Email: info@juniorsmilesofstafford.com
Monday and Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesdays and Thursdays: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Fridays and Saturdays: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM (By appointment only)
How to Book Your Kids First Appointment at Junior Smiles of Stafford
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