Teething is a painful experience for the kids, as well as parents.But, when the teeth finally emerge, maintaining them is also a challenging task. So, how does one take care of the teeth? And, how safe is it to use a brush on the baby’s tender gums? And, is it really necessary to brush the little one’s teeth? Well, find out when to start brushing baby’s teeth, so that they remain healthy and white.

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Is it necessary to brush baby’s teeth?

Though, the teeth of the babies are small, they are also quite important, as they are the foundation for the adult teeth. If the teeth are not healthy, the child will have difficulty in speaking or chewing. So, it is essential to keep them free of decays.

Baby Teeth Chart:

Upper Teeth

• Central Incisor teeth – Starts erupting in 8 to 12 months
• Lateral Incisor teeth – Starts erupting in 9 to 13 months
• Canine Teeth – Starts erupting in 16 to 22 months
• First Molar Teeth – Starts erupting in 13 to 19 months
• Second molar teeth – Starts erupting in 25 to 33 months

Lower Teeth:

• Central Incisor – 6 to 10 months
• First Molar – 14 to 18 months
• Second Molar – 21 to 31 months
• Lateral Incisor – 10 to 16 months
• Canine – 17 to 23 months

This baby teeth chart would have given you an idea about when the teeth will start breaking out.

When to Start Brushing Baby’s Teeth?

As soon as the first tooth starts appearing, you can start the brushing process.

How to start caring for your baby’s teeth?

You should start the teeth care for the baby, right away. But, do not use toothpaste, or toothbrush for this. Use a soft and moist cloth for this, or use a piece of gauze. Wipe the gums of the baby, twice a day. Using a finger, wipe the teeth clean first, and also clean his tongue. Also, wipe the baby’s gums, soon after feeding, and before bed time. This will help in washing away the bacteria, and also help in preventing them from clinging on to the gums. Bacteria can leave a sticky plaque, which can damage the infant’s teeth.

How to brush baby’s teeth?

When you see the first teeth popping out, you can start using a toothbrush. Use a soft brush, which has a large handle and small head. Toss away brushes that become rough. Also, keep replacing the brush every 2 to 4 months.

• Wet the tooth brush.
• Use a bit of baby’s toothpaste, to start with. When the baby is 3 years old, use a pea-sized amount of fluoride tooth paste, and brush it gently on the front and the back.
• When the baby is 6 years old, and is able to manage the brush on his own, you will have to help him in brushing his teeth.

In case, you see any signs of tooth decay in the babies, or see any white or brown spots on the teeth, take the child to the paediatrician. In fact, even if there is no problem, the child should be taken to the dentist by the age of 1. The dentist will give you advice on tooth care, teething, tooth paste, and thumb sucking.

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Should you brush the baby’s gums?

As per the paediatric dentists, the baby’s gums should be cleaned after every feeding. This will help in fighting the growth of bacteria, and will promote good oral health. But, do not use a brush for this. Use a soft and damp cloth for this purpose.

How to prevent cavities?

Kids are more susceptible to get cavities. To prevent them from happening, you should fill the bottle with only formula milk, breast milk, or water. Do not put sodas, fruit juices or sugary drinks in the bottle, as these can cause tooth decay. Bacteria actually feed on sugar from the sweetened drinks, and produce the acid that can cause decay of the teeth.

And, do not send the baby to bed, with a bottle that is filled with milk or juices. Fill the bottle only with water.

Is Fluoride toothpaste safe?

Fluoride toothpaste can help in preventing cavities. Even if the baby swallows some toothpaste, it is alright, but it should be in small quantities.

Decayed teeth can actually interfere with the speech development and good nutrition. So, ensure that your baby’s teeth is brushed properly. You can also teach your baby to brush on his own. At least, allow him to give it a try. Make brushing a fun activity, by singing songs, and allowing her to play.

References:

http://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/caring-babies-teeth#1

https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/teething/brushing-baby-teeth.aspx