POOJA KOTHARIMom of a 8 yr 5 m old boy1 Year agoA. Dental care is an essential aspect of a baby's overall health. Here are guidelines on when and how to start brushing your baby's teeth:
**When to Start:**
1. **First Tooth Arrival:** Begin cleaning your baby's gums even before the first tooth appears. Use a clean, damp cloth or gauze to gently wipe the gums after feedings.
2. **First Tooth Eruption (Around 6 Months):** Once the first tooth emerges, usually around 6 months of age, it's time to introduce a baby toothbrush.
**How to Start:**
1. **Select a Soft Baby Toothbrush:**
- Choose a toothbrush designed for babies with soft bristles. These brushes are gentle on your baby's sensitive gums and emerging teeth.
2. **Use a Tiny Amount of Toothpaste:**
- For children under 2 years old, use a smear or grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay. As your child gets older, you can increase the amount to a pea-sized dab around age 3.
3. **Establish a Routine:**
- Make toothbrushing a part of your baby's daily routine. Aim to brush your baby's teeth twice a day—once in the morning and once before bedtime.
4. **Sit or Stand Comfortably:**
- Choose a comfortable position for both you and your baby. You can stand or sit, holding your baby on your lap or on a changing table.
5. **Gentle Brushing Motion:**
- Hold the toothbrush at a slight angle and brush with gentle circular or back-and-forth motions. Pay attention to the front and back surfaces of each tooth.
6. **Make it Fun:**
- Turn toothbrushing into a positive experience. Sing a song, use a playful toothbrush, or let your baby hold a toothbrush while you brush.
7. **Be Consistent:**
- Consistency is key. Establishing a routine early on helps your baby get used to the process and understand that toothbrushing is a regular part of daily life.
8. **Supervise and Assist:**
- Until your child is capable of brushing independently (usually around age 6 or 7), supervise and assist with brushing to ensure thorough cleaning.
9. **Regular Dental Check-ups:**
- Schedule your baby's first dental visit within six months of the first tooth eruption or by their first birthday, as recommended by many dental associations.
Remember, each child is unique, and their readiness for toothbrushing may vary. If you have specific concerns or questions about your baby's dental care, consult with your pediatrician or a pediatric dentist for personalized advice based on your child's individual needs.
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