Many parents are surprised to learn that dental care starts before the first tooth appears. Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, they play a critical role in your child’s overall development- from speech to chewing to guiding adult teeth into place.

At A. Shine Dental Hygiene Clinic, we’re here to help you start your baby’s dental journey the right way- with healthy habits that last a lifetime.

When Should You Start Oral Care for Your Baby?

Right away! You don’t need to wait for teeth to emerge. Good oral care starts from birth, and at home: keep the mouth clean and get your baby used to daily routines. Before teeth appear, gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp washcloth or soft gauze after feedings. This removes milk residue and reduces bacteria buildup. Never put your baby to bed with a bottle- it can cause early tooth decay (known as early childhood caries, or baby bottle tooth decay). At 6 to12 months when the first teeth erupt, use a soft-bristled infant toothbrush with just a rice-sized amount of non-fluoridated toothpaste. (Start using fluoridated toothpaste when they reach 3+ years old: most kids tend to eat the paste, as they are unable to spit it out.) Start practicing good brushing habits early so it becomes routine. Regular cleanings can start around the time they turn 2 years old, but the first visit to the dentist should be booked by the time their first teeth erupt- or the child’s first birthday.

Watch for Early Dental Problems

Look out for:

• White spots or brown stains on teeth (early signs of decay)
• Irritated gums during teething
• Thumb sucking past age 3, which may affect alignment

If you notice anything unusual, consult your dentist.

Tips for Parents

• Brush your baby’s teeth for them until around age 6–7, when they can reliably do it themselves.
• Make brushing fun with songs, colorful toothbrushes, or brushing apps.
• Set a positive tone for dental visits by starting early and explaining the process using picture books, or fun dental videos.

Establishing good dental hygiene in infancy can prevent painful problems later, and set your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Make their first dental visit a positive one- book your child’s initial cleaning at A. Shine Dental Hygiene Clinic. We love helping little ones feel safe, cared for, and excited about oral health!