How Do I Clean My Infants’ Teeth?

There’s nothing quite as adorable as the smile of a baby with a few tiny teeth. We all know that an infant’s darling little teeth will eventually fall out to make room for permanent teeth. But not everyone knows what an important role baby teeth play in a child’s development. Despite what some people may think, it’s very important to take good care of baby teeth. But how should you clean your infants’ teeth? In general, hygiene and healthcare are always a little bit different with babies compared to adults. Here’s what you need to know.

Proper Brushing Technique

When your infant begins to get their first teeth, you can clean them using a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small bit of toothpaste. A drop about the size of a grain of rice is enough to gently brush all the surfaces of their teeth. It’s best to use a toothbrush specifically designed for children. The smaller head will be easier to manipulate inside your infant’s small mouth.

The Right Position

If you’re having difficulty getting in the right position to brush your infant’s teeth properly, try sitting them on your lap with both of you facing in the same direction. Then you’ll have a better angle to clean all the surfaces of their teeth. If it helps, you can both face a mirror so your baby can see your facial expressions.

When to Brush

You should brush your infant’s teeth twice a day just like you should be doing with your own teeth. By brushing them in the morning and before bed, you can help keep cavities and other dental issues at bay. You also get in the habit of making oral hygiene part of your baby’s routine.

Make It Fun

If your infant is putting up a fight when it comes to tooth-brushing time, just know that you’re not alone. Try to make the experience more fun, and hopefully easier on you. You could tell them an exciting story or let them listen to a recorded story while you brush their teeth. Another suggestion is to play their favorite song or another fun melody. You can also let them pretend to brush the teeth of their favorite stuffed animal at the same time.

Caring for Your Baby’s Teeth in San Antonio, TX

If you still have some worries or questions about taking care of your infants’ teeth, we’d be happy to help. Or you may want to know more about the services we offer for our young patients with their ever-changing smiles. Don’t be shy! Call our San Antonio dental practice or send us an email and one of our friendly team members will get back to you as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you!