WHEN SHOULD BABIES START BRUSHING THEIR TEETH?

WHEN SHOULD BABIES START BRUSHING THEIR TEETH?

Babies usually begin teething around 6 months of age, and this process continues until about age 3. Babies eventually develop 20 primary (milk) teeth. It’s a good idea to start cleaning their teeth once they begin to appear—typically between 6 and 8 months.

How to clean a baby’s teeth:
You can clean food residues from the chewing surfaces of the teeth using a sterile gauze pad or a very clean piece of muslin cloth.

Toothbrush use:
Using a toothbrush is recommended after the child’s back teeth have come in—around 2.5 to 3 years old. The toothbrush you choose should be age-appropriate and have soft bristles. Brushes with hard bristles can damage the enamel and gums. Replacing the toothbrush every 3 to 6 months is also advisable.

Choosing a toothpaste:
When choosing a toothpaste, make sure it is specifically designed for children. Kids may try to eat or swallow the toothpaste. Regular toothpastes often contain high levels of fluoride, which can be dangerous if ingested or used excessively. Be careful and make an informed choice.

When should a baby’s teeth be cleaned?
Establishing a routine of cleaning the chewing surfaces of the teeth after breakfast and before bedtime is helpful for developing good habits.

How to teach children to brush their teeth:
It’s perfectly normal for your child not to be great at brushing in the beginning. Encourage and praise them, and turn tooth brushing into a fun activity.
Here are some tips to help build the habit:

  • Let your child brush their teeth while you brush yours.
  • Get them a few colorful toothbrushes and child-safe toothpastes. Let them pick a different combination each time to make brushing more fun and motivating.
  • Let them brush first, then you can help brush their teeth—and let them brush yours too. Turning it into a game will make it enjoyable.
  • Put an hourglass timer by the sink. Flip it each time to keep track of a 2-minute brushing session.
  • Create a brushing chart and mark it together after every brushing session.
  • As parents, make sure you brush your teeth regularly so your child sees you as a role model. In the early days, brush together, and eventually, they’ll start brushing on their own.

Labels: Baby tooth brushing, Infant dental care, Baby teeth cleaning, Baby dental health
April 22, 2025
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