When should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?

You should start cleaning your baby’s teeth as soon as they start to appear. New teeth are just as susceptible to tooth decay as everybody elses.
You should be cleaning your baby’s teeth twice a day. At first you might find it easier to use a piece of clean gauze or cloth wrapped around your finger.
As more teeth appear you should use a toothbrush specifically designed for babies.

These toothbrushes have soft, small heads, which will help prevent any damage to the gums. Make sure you gently massage around the teeth and gums with the toothbrush.
You only need to use a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste when your child is a baby. There are several toothpastes specifically designed for babies and children.

Dummies, teething rings and bottles

Never dip your baby’s dummy or teething ring into anything that contains sugar such as fruit juice, honey or syrup.  Prolonged exposure to the harmful acids in the sugar will attack your baby’s teeth and set them up for a childhood filled with tooth decay.

Likewise you should never add sugar to bottle feeds or give them sugary drinks. Babies are not born with a sweet tooth, that is the parents doing.All your baby needs to drink is Milk and Water.

Dental check-ups

Your dentist will be able to advise you about when to take your baby for their first check up. Most babies visit the dentist for the first time at around six months old. Your child will then have regular check ups every 3-12 months.