Taking care of your baby's teeth right from the start is one of the best things you can do for their long-term health. It sets them up for a future of healthy smiles. We'll show you how to gently clean their new teeth and gums.
This early care helps prevent cavities and teaches good habits. Your role is so important, and we're here to support you every step of the way.
Wipe Gums Daily
Before teeth come in, gently wipe your baby's gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings.
First Tooth, First Brush
Once the first tooth appears, use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice) and a soft baby toothbrush.
First Visit by First Birthday
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a dental check-up by age 1 to catch any potential issues early.
Avoid Bedtime Bottles
Don't put your baby to bed with a bottle of milk or juice. This can cause serious tooth decay.
Soothe Teething Pain Safely
Offer a chilled (not frozen) teething ring or gently rub their gums with a clean finger. Avoid numbing gels.
Here is what to watch for at each stage.
Your baby is all gums! Clean their mouth with a soft, damp cloth daily to get them used to it.
The first teeth, usually the bottom front ones, will start to pop through. Teething symptoms may begin.
Schedule their first dental visit. The dentist will check their teeth and answer your questions.
More teeth, including their first molars, will appear. Keep brushing twice a day.
By age 3, your child will likely have all 20 primary teeth. They can start learning to spit out toothpaste.
Remember, every child is different! These are just general timelines.
Want clarity about your own mouth? Snap a photo of your teeth and get your free AI oral health score in 60 seconds. No insurance needed.
These are the issues parents and caregivers ask about most.
Yes, that's very common. Fussiness, drooling, and a low-grade fever can all be signs of teething. A chilled teething toy can help.
It's tooth decay caused by the sugars in milk or juice sitting on the teeth for a long time, especially from a bottle at night.
Most children stop on their own. If it continues past age 3 or 4, it can affect how their adult teeth come in. We can talk about gentle ways to stop.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends using a rice-grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth appears.
Early visits are for prevention. The dentist can spot issues you can't see and give you personalized advice for your child.
Preventing dental problems in babies is easier than you think. A few simple habits can make a huge difference for their future oral health.
Start brushing with a soft brush and a tiny bit of fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth erupts.
Once they are old enough for drinks other than milk, offer water between meals instead of juice.
Never put juice, soda, or other sweet drinks in your baby's bottle. Stick to formula, breast milk, or water.
Encourage your child to drink from a cup by their first birthday to reduce the risk of bottle tooth decay.
Visiting the dentist regularly allows us to catch and prevent problems before they become serious.