The recommended age to start brushing your child’s teeth is when they are 3 years old.
Even before they are 3, you will have to help them keep their mouth and gums clean.
So what can you do to ensure that your child has healthy teeth from the get-go?
Continue reading to discover how to brush baby teeth so that your child develops healthy gums and chompers.
Table of Contents
1. Use a Washcloth
When learning how to brush baby teeth, you will have to consider the age of your child.
If your child is under the age 3, you should use a soft washcloth or material to clean the mouth. Dampen the material with water, you should not be using toothpaste for your baby.
Wiping down your baby’s gums and teeth after meals can prevent bacteria from building up and leading to infection.
2. Get a Brush When a Tooth Pops up
Depending on how fast your little one is growing, you will need to get a toothbrush.
When teeth start coming in you will want to get a soft bristle toothbrush that will rid the tooth of plaque and bacteria. Try to get one with a large handle, so that your child can learn how to use it. The smaller the head of the brush, the easier it will fit in their mouths.
3. Start Small
When teeth are popping up you will have to slowly introduce teeth brushing to your child.
You should only apply a small amount of toothpaste to the brush. The recommended amount is the size of a grain of rice, but you will increase this over time.
Take your time and gently brush your child’s teeth from back to front. Continue to brush your child’s teeth until they can do it independently. Make sure that you still monitor them brushing their teeth at the beginning to ensure that they don’t start bad dental health habits.
4. Visit the Dentist
The first dentist visit should happen by the time your little one is a year old.
A pediatric dentist can work with your child and get them acclimated to the office and tools. The dentist can help guide you with providing your child with dental health and give you tips along the way.
Many people talk to their child’s dentist about thumb sucking, brushing tips, and if there is any decay that can be found. If your child complains of tooth pain, or you see signs of decay, make an appointment with the dentist immediately.
Learning How to Brush Baby Teeth Can Be Easy
Learning how to brush baby teeth can be intimidating when it isn’t your mouth that you’re concerned about.
From the day you bring your baby home you can wipe down their mouth and gums to get rid of bacteria and plaque. As your child ages, they will be able to use small amounts of toothpaste.
Helping your child learn how to brush their teeth the right way can prevent cavities and mouth decay. Don’t wait too long before focusing on your baby’s teeth.
Be sure to check out our blog for more articles on raising a family and keeping everyone healthy!
