Q & A - Infant Dental Care

First visit by first birthday

When Should You Start Brushing Your Baby's Teeth?

Teething is the process by which an infant's teeth sequentially appear by breaking through the gums. Teething may start as early as three months or as late, in some cases, as twelve months. Occasionally a baby may even have one or more teeth at birth.

Dentists recommend brushing infants' teeth as soon as they appear. It is not advisable to wait for the teething process to be complete. Careful and frequent brushing with a toothbrush helps to prevent build-up of plaque bacteria on the teeth. These bacteria metabolize carbohydrates in our meals or snacks and excrete acid which demineralizes tooth enamel, eventually leading to tooth decay and toothache if acid episodes are frequent or are not prevented.

If you baby requires a bottle at bedtime try to use only water. Always clean the child’s teeth before he/she falls asleep to prevent tooth decay.