Baby's First “Toothpaste”: Water
Before your baby's first tooth emerges, their gums are laying the foundation for a healthy smile. It is crucial to begin practising good oral health habits on your baby's gums, even at this stage. You won't be using a toothbrush or toothpaste for your baby yet. Instead, use clear water and a piece of soft, clean gauze to gently remove bacteria. Here is what you need to do:
If your baby starts eating solid foods without teeth, do the gauzed finger and water procedure after each meal. This will help remove food particles that can contribute to the growth of bacteria.
First Tooth: Handle with Care
As soon as your baby's first tooth appears, it is time to start real brushing to prevent plaque buildup. Here is a checklist to help you get started:
Select a toothbrush made for babies: Opt for a toothbrush made especially for babies' mouths with extra-soft bristles to be gentle on their delicate gums and teeth.
Brush gently twice a day: Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste for baby, after feedings and at bedtime. Your baby won't be able to spit out the toothpaste, so use only a small amount.
Schedule your baby's first dentist visit: It is important to schedule your baby's first dental appointment by the age of one or after the first tooth erupts. Talk to the dentists about your baby's oral care routine during the visit to ensure optimal care.
- Make brushing fun: Using a baby toothbrush helps your child get used to the feeling of a brush in their mouth. You can also combine brushing with silly songs and fun games to make it interesting, so your child will learn that brushing can be a pleasant experience.
By following these steps and making oral care a part of your baby’s daily routine, you can ensure their teeth stay healthy and strong as they continue to grow.
When Should You Start Brushing Your Baby’s Teeth?
Before teeth erupt, water and gauze are great for cleaning your baby's gums. However, once those pearly whites start appearing, brushing becomes essential. As soon as the first tooth emerges, typically around six months but varying for each baby, use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of toothpaste for babies after feedings and at bedtime. Additionally, if two baby teeth come in side by side, gently floss them at least once daily, preferably before bedtime.
Ingredients To Avoid In Baby Toothpaste
When selecting the best toothpaste for babies, it is essential to be mindful of the ingredients used in these products. There are some common ingredients found in baby toothpaste that may be best avoided for your baby's delicate gums and developing teeth. Understanding these ingredients empowers parents to make informed choices for their baby's dental care routine.
Essential Oils
You might find some toothpaste containing essential oils like peppermint or tea tree oil. However, these ingredients are usually left out of baby toothpaste for a few reasons, including sensitive gums and the risk of swallowing. Babies have delicate mouths, and these strong oils could irritate their gums and cause discomfort. Since babies are still learning to spit, there is a chance they might swallow some toothpaste while brushing. Given that these oils can be harmful if swallowed in large amounts, it is safer to avoid them altogether.
Artificial Flavours & Preservatives
While brightly coloured toothpaste with flavours might seem like a good idea, it is best to keep things simple for your baby's oral care routine. Artificial flavours and preservatives may not necessarily contribute to dental hygiene and might even contain sugars that can promote cavities. When selecting toothpaste for your baby, opt for varieties that are free of artificial flavours and preservatives to minimise unnecessary additives.
Consider toothpaste like Colgate Toothpaste for Kids (0-2 years), which is designed with a 50% less abrasive formula compared to regular adult toothpaste. It contains zero artificial flavours, colours, sweeteners, or preservatives and comes in a natural fruit flavour.