Oral Care for Babies & Toddlers (0-4)

Before the First Tooth (0-6 Months): Gum Care

Even a toothless smile needs care. After each feeding (both breast and bottle), take a clean, damp, soft washcloth or a piece of gauze and gently wipe your baby's gums. This simple step does two important things: it removes harmful sugar and milk residue that can lead to fungal infections, and it gets your baby accustomed to having their mouth cleaned, making the transition to a toothbrush much easier.

The Teething Journey (6-24 Months)

Teething is a major milestone, but it can be an uncomfortable one. Understanding the process can help you soothe your little one effectively.

Baby Tooth Eruption Timeline

While every child is different, baby teeth tend to erupt in a predictable pattern. Here is a general timeline for when you can expect those little pearls to appear:

*This is an average timeline. Variations are completely normal.

Common Teething Symptoms

You may notice several signs that a tooth is on its way:

• Excessive drooling: This can sometimes cause a mild rash on the chin.
• Irritability and fussiness: Discomfort can make your baby cranky.
• Chewing on everything: Biting on fingers, toys, and other objects provides counter-pressure to the gums.
• Swollen, tender gums: You may be able to see or feel a bulge where the tooth is coming through.

Note: Teething does not typically cause high fever or diarrhea. If your child has these symptoms, you should consult your pediatrician.

First Teeth, First Brush (6+ Months)

The moment that first tooth erupts, it's time to start brushing! This is a critical step in preventing early childhood cavities.

• Choose the Right Brush: Use an infant toothbrush with a tiny head and very soft bristles.
• Use Fluoride Toothpaste: The recommendation is to use a very small smear of fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a single grain of rice.
• Technique: Sit with your baby in your lap, with their head resting against your body. Gently brush all surfaces of the tooth and along the gumline in small, circular motions.
• Frequency: Brush twice a day—once in the morning and once right before bed.

Your Baby's First Dental Visit

The "first visit by the first birthday" rule is a key milestone for preventative care. This initial visit is less about active treatment and more about education and getting your child comfortable in a dental environment.

What to Expect:

The pediatric dentist will likely perform a "lap-to-lap" exam, where you hold your child on your lap facing you, and then lean them back into the dentist's lap. This is a secure and comforting position. The dentist will quickly examine their teeth and gums, check for any early signs of decay, and assess their bite. Most importantly, they will provide you with personalized advice on hygiene, diet, and any habits like thumb sucking.

Preventing Early Childhood Caries (ECC)

Early Childhood Caries, often called "baby bottle tooth decay," is a severe form of decay that can destroy the teeth of infants and toddlers. It is entirely preventable.

Key Prevention Strategies:

• No Bottles in Bed: Never put your baby to sleep with a bottle containing anything other than water. The sugars in milk and formula will pool around the teeth all night, causing rapid decay.
• Water is Best: Between meals, the best drink for your child is water. Avoid filling sippy cups with juice or sugary drinks.
• Transition to a Cup: Encourage your child to drink from a regular cup as soon as they are able, aiming to phase out the bottle by their first birthday.