How do I care for new teeth when they come in?

Because primary (baby) teeth are as important as adult teeth, it is important to care for them as soon as they erupt. Before starting with a toothbrush, first get your baby used to your cleaning his or her teeth by wiping them with a damp washcloth. As soon as you can accomplish this without too much of a struggle, transition to a child's sized toothbrush and water. After the age of two, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and make sure the child spits out the toothpaste and rinses with water.

When your child's teeth start to appear, brush them with a child's size toothbrush and plain water. For newborns, clean the baby's gums with a clean wet gauze pad or washcloth. Until your child is six or seven years old, continue to brush his or her teeth twice a day with a child’s size toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste and continue to assist with flossing as needed.

Children need strong, healthy teeth to chew their food, speak and have a good-looking smile. Teaching your child good oral hygiene habits early can lead to a lifetime of good dental health. The ADA recommends that parents take children to a dentist no later than their first birthday and then at intervals recommended by their dentist.

When teeth first appear, you should care for them much as you would your own teeth. Brushing gently with a soft toothbrush made for a child is the basis for good oral hygiene. Avoid allowing your baby to fall asleep with a bottle, as this may result in teeth sitting in milk or formula for long periods, creating optimal conditions for tooth decay.