When to Start Brushing a Babyâs Teeth?
Start brushing as soon as the first tooth erupts, typically between 6 and 12 months.
How to Start and What to Use?
Tools:
Under 18 months: Soft infant toothbrush (small head, gentle bristles) + water only.
18 months+: Same toothbrush + a rice-grain-sized smear of low-fluoride toothpaste (e.g., Colgate Kids 0-2 years, Himalaya Baby Toothpaste).
Method:
Position: Sit baby on your lap, head tilted back.
Technique: Brush gently in small circles on teeth and gums (front, back, top) for 2 minutes.
Frequency: Twice dailyâmorning and bedtime.
Tips:
No swallowing of toothpaste.
Replace toothbrush every 3 months.
First dental visit by age 1.
Food List for a 1-Year-Old (Indian Context)
Balanced, soft foods for a 1-year-old, alongside milk (breast milk/formula):
Breakfast (8-9 AM):
Suji (semolina) porridge: 2 tbsp suji, 1/2 cup milk, 1 tsp jaggery, mashed banana.
Mini idli: 2-3 pieces with 1 tbsp diluted sambar (no spice).
Mid-Morning Snack (11 AM):
Mashed fruit: 1/2 ripe mango or 1 small steamed apple.
Lunch (1 PM):
Khichdi: 2 tbsp rice + 1 tbsp moong dal, mashed with 1 tsp ghee and 1 tbsp boiled carrot/pumpkin.
Curd: 2-3 tbsp (plain, homemade).
Afternoon Snack (4 PM):
Ragi porridge: 1 tbsp ragi flour, 1/2 cup milk, 1 tsp jaggery.
Dinner (7 PM):
Roti: 1/4 soft wheat roti, mashed with 1 tbsp dal (moong/toor).
Vegetable puree: 2 tbsp boiled spinach or beetroot, mildly seasoned.
Before Bed (9 PM):
Warm milk: 100-150 ml (plain or with a pinch of turmeric).
Notes:
Avoid salt/sugar excess (max 1 tsp/day).
No honey until age 2.
Offer 2-3 cups water daily (sips between meals).
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
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