How to Know When to Brush a Baby's Teeth

Dental problems can start at a very young age. Cavities in new baby teeth can cause many issues, from pain to problems eating. Brushing baby teeth helps to prevent dental problems and develops good habits that carry on into adulthood. Dental health is very important to babies, and should be kept up regularly. Read on to learn how to know when to brush a baby's teeth.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Brush with an infant toothbrush as soon as the first tooth appears. Even if it is barely visible, it still needs to be brushed. Teeth should be brushed at a minimum twice a day, although dentists recommend brushing after every meal to prevent tooth decay. Infant toothbrushes are made specifically for a baby's teeth, as adult toothbrushes are too hard.
2. Use a small amount of toothpaste or none at all. Just a dab, about the size of a grain of rice, is enough. Using a toothpaste designed for a child helps ensure the child will tolerate the taste.
3. Ask a dentist what type of toothpaste to brush with for the child. He may want the baby to use flouride toothpaste. Flouride helps to prevent formation of cavities. However, flouride can be fatal to babies, even in fairly small amounts, so be sure to brush with very small amounts.
4. Rub the gums with gauze before teeth come in. This gets baby used to the habit of brushing teeth, and can even alleviate some of the discomfort babies get with teething. The American Dental Association recommends starting this cleaning a few days after birth.
5. Offer help. When the child is old enough to brush alone, let her do it. After she is done brushing, lend a helping hand to brush the hard to reach areas and problem spots.