When do I start brushing my baby's teeth?

Your baby should have proper dental care as soon as their first tooth appears to come through. Your baby will begin to cut their teeth approximately two to three weeks before the tooth begins to show. He will be displaying signs of teething with symptoms such as drooling, fussiness and wanting to chew on anything he can find. It is sometimes helpful to massage his gums with your finger or give him a cool wash cloth to chew on.  As soon as the tooth breaks the gum and is visible it is time to begin brushing.

Use a baby toothbrush and water. There is toothpaste available for babies that does not contain fluoride if you prefer to use toothpaste. Do not use regular toothpaste because he will swallow some of it and the fluoride in adult toothpaste can be harmful to your baby.

If you opt to use toothpaste, use only an amount the size of a small pea. Gently brush your babies tooth and slightly go over the gums surrounding the tooth. His teeth should be brushed at least twice each day, once in the morning and once at night. If you prefer the teeth can be brushed after each feeding, however, if you choose to do this, only use water for brushing.

If your baby becomes fussy and difficult during brushing time, let him hold the toothbrush to get the feel of it and to know that it will not hurt him. It is recommended that children be seen by a paediatric dentist at around the age of six months. This is important as children to protect your baby’s teeth from cavities as well as to ensure he will have healthy teeth and gums.