Good dental hygiene starts when children are very young. Kids need to develop habits that contribute to their oral health, including a regular brushing routine.

Since there are many benefits to having good oral hygiene, it is important to help children become comfortable with brushing their teeth from a young age.

When Should Kids Start Brushing Their Teeth?

Should children start brushing their teeth once they have a mouth full of them? Or when they can be independent and can do it themselves?

Actually, good teeth-brushing habits start during infancy!

Cleaning Baby’s Gums

The first year of a baby’s life is filled with so many fun milestones, including getting their first tooth. Even though teeth typically start emerging between four and 12 months, you can clean a baby’s mouth to help prepare for future teeth.

Once a baby is born, you can begin gently rubbing his or her gums with a soft, damp cloth to help remove bacteria. Water is the perfect accompaniment for an infant’s gum-brushing routine. Remember to get under the lip and all around the gums to remove any debris from food and bacteria.

It is also important to brush a babies’ gums (or teeth) after they’ve received their last bottle of the evening. Just like you would brush your teeth right before bed, children should go to bed with a freshly brushed, clean mouth.

Creating the habit of daily gum-brushing can also help children get accustomed to the routine of teeth-brushing. Once the baby’s first tooth has erupted, it is recommended that brushing is extended to twice per day, two minutes per session.

You can transition over to a finger brush or a child-size soft-bristled toothbrush to keep your fingers away from those sharp chompers!

Key Takeaways

Developing a good oral routine for children doesn’t have to be complicated. Remember to begin cleaning their gums during infancy and transition over to a toothbrush when teeth start erupting.

The most important part of oral hygiene is the routine. Helping children create good habits is the best way to ensure they will keep their teeth and gums healthy into adulthood.

Did you know that children should see a pediatric dentist once their first tooth has emerged, or when they hit their first birthday? Depending on which milestone comes first, be sure to schedule an appointment with a dentist to begin developing those healthy oral hygiene habits!

Contact us today to schedule a pediatric dental appointment for your child. We’re looking forward to seeing you soon!

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