Your baby might not have any teeth yet, but infant oral care is a must if you want to reduce the chances of cavities later on, and it should start the day he is born. Simply getting your child used to having his mouth cleaned is a critical start.
1. CLEANING THE GUMS
Although you don't have to use a toothbrush or toothpaste until the first tooth pops up, cleaning the gums after feeding will remove bacteria and sugar from the mouth, and you do want him or her to get used to that process. To clean your baby's gums, wrap a clean, damp washcloth around your finger and gently rub the gums with it.
2. BETTER OUT THAN IN
Be careful about what you put in your baby's mouth – or what they put in their mouth themselves. Tooth decay and cavities are caused by bacteria, and are therefore considered an infection. Do not share anything that's been in your own mouth, such as utensils or toothbrushes. You can also protect your baby's mouth by always rinsing pacifiers and bottle nipples with water, not saliva.
3. CARE FOR FIRST TOOTH
Get in the habit of brushing your baby's teeth twice daily from the moment his first tooth appears. Gently brush the tooth with the toothbrush, making sure you get all sides and the gums surrounding it. Once multiple teeth are present, you can start flossing, to remove debris that can get stuck between adjacent teeth. Although these baby teeth fall out in time, it's important to take good care of them so they don't fall out prematurely.
4. FIRST DENTAL VISIT
The American Dental Association recommends having your baby see a dentist by the time he turns one.
Infant oral care is just the beginning of a lifelong habit of good oral hygiene. If you ever face problems with caring for your baby's teeth, the dentist is there for you. But being prepared with what to use and when to use it will make each visit as easy as the last.