Help my baby has teeth!

Your baby's first year is a whirlwind of milestones – first smiles, first words, and yes, first teeth! But how do you care for those precious tiny teeth and set your baby up for a lifetime of healthy smiles? Here’s a handy guide to nurturing your baby’s oral health from day one.

Oral Hygiene: Building Healthy Habits Early

• Make sure your baby watches you brushing your teeth. This can happen at any time before their teeth even appear! 
• Start cleaning as soon as the first tooth appears (typically around 6 months)
• Use a soft, age-appropriate toothbrush.
• Make brushing twice a day part of your baby’s routine, especially before bedtime. Technique doesn’t need to be perfect at first – the goal is to create a consistent habit that becomes second nature over time. When you start brushing it can feel like a game of chase! But keeping it consistent (even if it’s just a quick swipe) will help establish a routine.
• Brush before breakfast and before bed. 

Fluoride: Why It’s a Must 

• Fluoride is your baby’s best defense against tooth decay. Use a smear of toothpaste with at least 1000ppm fluoride – just enough to lightly coat the very tip of the brush.
• If you prefer fluoride-free options, look for toothpastes with hydroxyapatite and make regular dental visits (every 3-6 months) to keep an eye on their teeth.

Habits to Avoid: Dummies, Bottles, and Sweet Treats

• Establish a routine for brushing from the start to create consistency and familiarity.
• Avoid giving babies bottles in bed or allowing prolonged use of a bottle with milk. Never give your baby anything to drink other than water or milk. 
• Discourage habits like thumb-sucking or prolonged dummy use, which may affect oral development. If a dummy is used, never dip it in sugary substances.

Diet: Fueling Healthy Smiles from the Start

• Breastfeeding is recommended for at least the first six months; it supports both general and oral health.
• If formula is used, avoid adding sugar.
• Introduce drinking from an open cup or free-flowing cup from around 6 months to avoid prolonged use of bottles.
• Avoid sugary drinks and snacks entirely. Water and milk are the only recommended drinks for this age group.
• Encourage a healthy weaning diet with no added sugars. Foods such as fruits, vegetables, and unsweetened dairy are ideal.

Your Baby’s First Dental Visit: What to Expect

• Your baby's first dental check up should be before they turn 1, or whenever they get their first tooth. Whichever comes first.
• If you have a dentist of your own, take your baby with you to your dental check ups so they can get used to the smells and sounds of the dental practice. 
• Your baby's first dental visit doesn’t have to be scary. Think of it as a friendly introduction! Most dentists are happy to answer your questions and make your little one feel comfortable. Starting early means a lifetime of fear-free dental visits.

I love hearing your tips for making toothbrushing fun! Share them in the comments! And don’t forget to book your baby’s first dental appointment – those tiny teeth deserve it!