When and How Parents Should Brush Their Newborn’s Teeth: A Guide from Kids Dental Spot
Taking care of your newborn's dental health is important right from the start, even before those tiny teeth appear. Many parents ask, "When should I start brushing my baby's teeth, and how do I do it safely?" As a pediatric dental service office in Anaheim, we’re here to provide answers and a simple guide on how to care for your baby’s mouth and teeth. Proper brushing sets the foundation for good oral hygiene as your child grows, and we at Kids Dental Spot are here to help every step of the way.
When Should You Start Brushing Your Baby’s Teeth?
Believe it or not, you should begin caring for your baby’s oral health even before their teeth come in. Cleaning their gums from an early age helps remove bacteria that could eventually lead to decay once the teeth emerge. Once your baby’s first tooth makes an appearance—usually around six months old—it’s time to start brushing.
As one of the best pediatric dental service providers in Anaheim, we recommend beginning a brushing routine with the eruption of the very first tooth. Early dental care sets the stage for lifelong habits that protect your child’s smile and overall health.
How to Properly Brush Your Newborn’s Teeth and Gums
When caring for a newborn or infant’s mouth, the most important thing is to be gentle and make the experience comfortable. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Clean the Gums Before Teeth Erupt:
Before teeth appear, you can gently clean your baby’s gums by using a soft, damp cloth or gauze. Simply wrap it around your finger and softly wipe your baby’s gums after feedings. This helps remove bacteria and get your baby used to having their mouth cleaned.
Use a Baby Toothbrush When Teeth Emerge:
Once the first tooth comes in, switch to a soft-bristled, small-headed toothbrush designed specifically for babies. At Kids Dental Spot, we recommend using a toothbrush that is made for infants, as they are extra soft and gentle on delicate gums and small teeth.
Brush With a Small Amount of Toothpaste:
Use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste—about the size of a grain of rice—for babies under three years old. Fluoride is key in protecting your child’s new teeth from cavities. Make sure to gently brush the tooth and gums in a circular motion, ensuring all surfaces are clean.
Keep It Gentle:
Remember to be extra gentle when brushing your baby’s teeth. Their gums and enamel are sensitive, and the goal is to make the process comfortable and enjoyable for them. Don’t worry about scrubbing; light, soft motions are more than enough to get the job done.
Brush Twice a Day:
We recommend brushing your baby’s teeth twice a day—once in the morning and once before bed. Making brushing a routine early on helps establish healthy dental habits that will last a lifetime.
What Kind of Toothbrush Should You Use?
When it comes to choosing a toothbrush for your newborn or infant, always go for one designed specifically for babies. Here’s what to look for:
Soft Bristles: The bristles should be soft to avoid hurting your baby’s sensitive gums.
Small Head: The head of the brush should be small enough to fit comfortably in your baby’s mouth without causing any discomfort.
Easy Grip for Parents: Many baby toothbrushes have easy-to-hold handles that make brushing simpler for you.
At Kids Dental Spot, we recommend starting with a finger brush or a toothbrush designed for newborns, which you can find at most pharmacies or grocery stores in Anaheim. These brushes are designed to be gentle on a baby’s delicate gums and tiny teeth.
The Importance of Early Brushing
Good oral hygiene starts early. Cleaning your baby’s gums and brushing their first teeth not only prevents tooth decay but also helps your baby become accustomed to the routine. As a child-friendly dentist in Anaheim, we encourage parents to make brushing a positive experience, incorporating it into your daily routine as a fun and loving part of caring for your baby.
Starting early also helps prevent issues that could arise later on. Cavities can develop as soon as teeth appear, so regular cleaning is vital. Additionally, by setting the stage early, you help avoid future dental anxiety, making future visits to the Anaheim dentist for kids easier and more comfortable.
When to Schedule Your Baby’s First Dental Visit
We recommend bringing your child in for their first dental visit in Anaheim by their first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth appearing. This allows us to check for any early signs of dental issues and provide guidance on how to keep your baby’s smile healthy.
At Kids Dental Spot, we offer gentle, compassionate care and are dedicated to creating a positive dental experience for your little one. We provide comprehensive pediatric dental services in Anaheim, from preventive care to emergency pediatric dental care if needed.
Partnering With Parents for Healthy Smiles
As a trusted family dentist in Anaheim, we understand that parents play a vital role in their child’s dental health. Brushing your baby’s teeth early on and making it a regular part of their routine will help ensure they develop healthy teeth and gums. If you ever have questions about brushing or your child’s dental care, we’re here to help at Kids Dental Spot.
With our experience in Anaheim pediatric dental services, we’ll support you in giving your child the best start to a lifetime of healthy smiles. Whether it’s helping you choose the right toothbrush, giving tips on brushing, or providing preventive care, we’re here to make sure your child’s dental journey is a positive one.
If you’re ready to schedule your baby’s first dental visit or have any concerns about their oral health, give us a call at Kids Dental Spot, the best children’s dental clinic in Anaheim! We’re here to ensure that your child receives the best care possible from the very start.
Kids Dental Spot is a children’s dental office focused providing pediatric dental services to patients in Anaheim, California. Serving kids, children, infants and adolescents in the heart of Orange County and nearby neighborhoods, such as: Fullerton, Brea, Garden Grove, Santa Ana, Buena Park, Placentia, and Orange.
Pediatric dentistry provides dental care for children from infancy through their teenage years. Our experienced children dentists focuses on gentle, kid-friendly treatments that ensure your child’s comfort and promote long-term oral health for our pediatric patients. From routine cleanings and preventive care to emergency dental services, we are committed to keeping your child’s smile healthy and strong. We understand the unique needs of young patients and strive to create a fun, welcoming environment that makes every dental visit a positive experience for Anaheim families.
Written and Medically Reviewed by Dr. Atiya Bahmanyar, DDS (Board Certified - Doctorate of Dental Surgery)
