Baby Dental Care: Everything You Need To Know

Maintaining good oral hygiene from an early age is crucial for your child's overall health and development. This guide provides evidence-based information to help you establish proper dental care routines for your little one. 

When do first teeth appear for babies?

First teeth typically emerge around 6 months of age. The lower front teeth usually appear first and by age 3, most children have a complete set of baby teeth. Some babies may get teeth earlier or later, this is no cause for alarm as these variations are normal.

Why do baby teeth matter?

You might think that baby teeth aren’t important because they are going to fall out anyways. However, baby teeth (milk teeth) serve several important functions:

Functions of baby teeth

• Help with proper chewing and speech development

• Hold spaces for permanent teeth

• Support healthy jaw development

• Build confidence through a healthy smile

Essential dental care tips for babies

Before baby teeth appear

• Clean your baby's gums daily with a clean, damp cloth

• Wipe gums after feeds to prevent fungal infections

• Never put your baby to bed with a milk bottle

• Avoid dipping pacifiers in sweet substances

When teeth begin to show

• Use a soft-bristled baby toothbrush

• For children under 3, use a smear of 1000ppm fluoride toothpaste

• Clean twice daily - morning and before bedtime

• Pay attention to both teeth and tongue

• Replace toothbrushes every 3 months or after illness

Proper cleaning technique for baby teeth

1. Position your baby comfortably in your arms or with their head on your lap

2. Gently lift the lip to access all surfaces

3. Use soft, circular motions to clean teeth and gums

4. Clean both front and back surfaces of each tooth

5. Finish by wiping the tongue

Have concerns about your child's teeth development? Request for an appointment with our paediatric dentists. Want to learn more about caring for your child? Join our parenting courses and workshops.

How to prevent tooth decay for baby teeth

1. Feeding practices

   • Consider breastfeeding in the first year, which studies show may help reduce decay risk

   • Avoid letting your baby sleep with a milk bottle

   • Offer water after milk feeds to rinse the mouth

   • Begin weaning from night feeds around age one

   • Introduce a cup when your child can hold one

2. Diet considerations

   • Choose sugar-free snacks like fresh fruits and vegetables

   • Make water the primary drink besides milk

   • Avoid sticky treats that cling to teeth

   • Limit sugary foods and drinks

Regular dental check-ups

Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining oral health, with the first visit ideally scheduled when your child’s first tooth appears. Early visits help establish comfort within the dental environment, allow for an initial assessment of cavity risk, and provide professional guidance on proper oral care techniques.

However, if your baby shows any of the signs below, it is important to schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible. Signs to watch for include white or brown spots on their teeth, noticeable changes in tooth colour, persistent swollen or bleeding gums, or difficulty eating and sensitivity. Detecting these symptoms early can help prevent more severe dental problems and promote better oral health in the long run.

Schedule your child's dental visits early. Request for an appointment with our experienced dental team today.

Common concerns for baby teeth

Common signs of teething

• Increased drooling

• Chewing on objects

• Red or swollen gums

• Mild irritability

How to ease the discomfort of baby teething

• Gently massage gums with clean fingers

• Offer cool (not frozen) teething rings

• Provide chilled healthy foods if age-appropriate

Preventing bacterial transfer

• Avoid sharing utensils with your baby

• Don't clean pacifiers with your mouth

• Use separate spoons for testing food temperature

• Prevent mouth-to-mouth contact to reduce bacteria transmission

Good dental habits formed in early childhood set the foundation for lifelong oral health. Whilst baby teeth eventually fall out, the care and attention given to them shape your child's future dental well-being. By maintaining proper oral hygiene routines, scheduling regular check-ups, and addressing concerns early, you're helping your child develop positive associations with dental care.

Every child's dental journey is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Our experienced dental team at Thomson Medical is here to support you and your child through each stage of dental development. Request an appointment for personalised guidance on your child's oral health needs.

FAQ

When should I start dental care for my baby?

It's important to begin cleaning your baby's mouth even before their first tooth emerges. Gently wipe their gums with a clean, damp cloth twice a day, especially after feedings and before bedtime, to remove bacteria and sugars that can cause cavities.

When should a baby first go to the dentist?

Schedule your baby's first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears. Early dental visits help identify potential issues, establish a dental care routine, and acclimate your child to the dental environment.

When should you start cleaning a baby's mouth? 

Begin cleaning your baby's mouth before teeth emerge by gently wiping their gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings and before bed. Once the first tooth appears, use a soft, small-bristled toothbrush to brush twice a day with plain water.

Should babies under 1 use toothpaste?

For babies under one year, use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste when brushing their teeth. This small amount is safe and helps prevent tooth decay. Always supervise brushing to ensure proper technique and prevent swallowing of toothpaste.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.