When to Start Brushing Baby Teeth | Springbank Dental

Stepping into parenthood can often feel like navigating uncharted waters, especially when it comes to monitoring your newborn’s milestones. The appearance of their first tooth is one of these many momentous occasions. But it also raises the question of when you should start maintaining your little one's dental health.

The answer actually might surprise you. You should start taking care of your little one’s gums even before they get their first tooth, as oral hygiene is important from the get-go!

It’s Never too Early for Oral Health

Typically, your little one's first tooth will make its grand entrance between 4 and 12 months of age. But you can start laying the groundwork for good oral hygiene even before that. Using a moist washcloth or a finger brush, gently rub and cleanse your newborn’s gums. This not only eases tooth eruption but also helps eliminate unwanted bacteria.

Aim to book your baby’s first dental visit before their first birthday rolls around. During their first dental check-up, their dental hygienist will clean their teeth and their dentist will assess them for potential oral health issues. 

By instilling the habit of proficient oral care in your child prior to the visit, you can ensure they’re well-prepared for this experience.

The Importance of Baby Teeth

There are numerous reasons why your little one's baby teeth matter. Baby teeth enable kids to munch on their favorite foods, articulate words, and flash charming smiles. Plus, baby teeth reserve space in the jaw for the growth of future permanent teeth.

Neglecting your little one’s dental health could pave the way for future dental complications. Improper care of baby teeth could lead to crowding issues as new teeth emerge. The absence of baby teeth can also result in unsightly gaps and induce shifting of neighboring teeth. This could potentially hinder the proper alignment of your child's permanent teeth, increasing the likelihood of your child having to wear braces in future years.

Your child's decayed baby teeth might need a dentist's intervention for removal. Such experiences can be unsettling and scary. However, the key to combating tooth decay lies in the first line of defense—prevention.

Signs Your Baby Is Ready to Help with Brushing 

As your little one starts showing more curiosity about the world around them, you might notice their little hands reaching out for dental hygiene objects like toothbrushes. This is a wonderful opportunity to familiarize them with the idea of brushing their teeth and softly lead them through this new experience.

Establishing good oral hygiene habits from an early stage is critical, as this lays the foundation of a healthy routine that will stick with a person for a lifetime. Starting early not only instills good habits, but also protects your baby from tooth decay and various dental issues in the future.

Their First Tooth

The moment your little one's pearly whites start peeking through their gum line, you’ll need to embark on a regular brushing regime. Strive to make toothbrush time happen after meals, snack times, and before tucking your child into bed every night.

Successful Brushing Tips 

Start the process by moistening your baby’s toothbrush, then adorn it with a rice-grain quantity of fluoride-free toothpaste.

Apply soft round movements to caress the front, back, and top areas of visible teeth. Don't forget to sweep their gums gently too—this will help keep gum disease at bay!

Once done, encourage your little one to expel the toothpaste and then gargle with water. 

Follow these guidelines and you'll be able to clean your child's teeth efficiently while fostering oral health.

Selecting the Right Toothpaste & Toothbrush

Prioritizing your baby's safety when choosing their toothbrush and toothpaste is crucial. Opt for a toothbrush that aligns with your baby's age and size, ensuring their usage is both effortless and secure.

It’s recommended to steer clear of fluoride toothpaste until your little one can spit it out properly, as swallowing fluoride isn't advisable.

Creating a Dental Care Routine 

For a thriving dental care regimen, build wholesome, regular habits that inject a dose of fun. Try to transform the act of brushing your baby’s teeth into a fun and delightful event. Try singing a song as you brush or turn brushing into an amusing game. By doing so, you can link dental hygiene to moments of fun and joy, fostering a positive association with the process and inspiring your baby to develop a lasting life habit.

We suggest your little ones make their inaugural trip to the dentist before they blow out their first birthday candle. Keeping up with frequent dental examinations can assist in spotting dental concerns in their infancy.

Your Baby’s Next Dental Care Steps 

At Springbank Dental, we eagerly await your child's first dental check-up, committed to aiding in the preservation of their oral well-being. Get in touch and schedule an appointment today!