Did you know that your child’s dental development starts early? Even before their first tooth, they cultivate an oral environment that impacts their dental health as their teeth begin to grow in. Dr. Tim Hung provides a list of instructions for early infant oral care in Woodinville, Washington, so you can stay informed about your child’s dental needs. Call Oasis Family Dentistry at (425) 486-9245 to schedule a visit with our dentist if you have any questions for us.

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All infants should have a daily oral cleaning. Using a soft, damp cloth, gently wipe your baby’s gums to remove any lingering formula or milk and prevent bacteria buildup.

Teeth begin to erupt through the gumline at about 6 months of age and continue to gradually appear until about age 3. As soon as teeth begin to emerge from the gums, you should begin using a soft-bristle baby toothbrush to clean your infant’s teeth. Use a tiny smear of child-safe toothpaste for children under the age of 2. After age 2, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste to clean their teeth. You should clean your child’s teeth at least twice a day. We recommend that you brush and floss your child’s teeth for them until about age 7, when their motor skills will have developed enough for them to brush on their own.

As your child develops teeth, you should avoid giving them a bottle filled with juice or other sweetened liquids when they go to bed. If your child insists on having a bottle, fill it only with water. This will help to reduce the risk of tooth decay.

Your baby’s mouth may also become sore while teething. You can help them feel more comfortable by providing a chilled teething ring and gently wiping their gums with a cold washcloth before and after meals.

When your child’s teeth begin to erupt, schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist for your child’s first “well-baby” appointment. Pediatric dentists are specially trained to provide dental care for infants and young children to ensure that they remain healthy and develop correctly.

If you have any questions about early infant oral care, please contact our office.

Frequently Asked Questions About Early Infant Oral Care in Woodinville

When should I start cleaning my baby’s mouth?

You should begin cleaning your baby’s mouth even before the first tooth erupts. Use a clean, damp cloth or gauze pad to gently wipe your baby’s gums after each feeding. This removes bacteria and sugar and helps your baby get used to having their mouth cleaned — a habit that will carry into brushing.

When do babies start teething?

Most babies begin teething between 4 and 7 months of age, though some start earlier or later. The first teeth to emerge are usually the lower front teeth. By age 3, most children have a full set of 20 primary teeth.

How do I care for my baby’s first teeth?

As soon as a tooth erupts, begin brushing it twice a day with a soft-bristled infant toothbrush and a rice-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste. Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, or juice, as this can lead to early childhood cavities known as baby bottle tooth decay.

What is baby bottle tooth decay?

Baby bottle tooth decay occurs when an infant’s teeth are frequently exposed to sugary liquids — including milk, formula, and fruit juice — for extended periods. The sugars feed bacteria that produce acid, eroding tooth enamel. Scheduling your child’s first dental visit early helps catch and prevent this condition.

Should I be concerned about thumb-sucking or pacifier use?

Thumb-sucking and pacifier use are natural soothing behaviors for infants. However, if these habits continue past age 3–4, they can affect the alignment of the teeth and jaw. Our team at Oasis Family Dentistry can monitor development and provide guidance if these habits become a concern.

Does my infant need fluoride?

Fluoride is important for developing strong, cavity-resistant teeth. If your water supply is not fluoridated, our team may recommend fluoride supplements or a professional fluoride treatment at your child’s dental visits. We will assess your child’s individual fluoride needs during their exam.

How soon should I bring my infant in for a dental visit?

We recommend scheduling your baby’s first dental visit by age one or within six months of the first tooth erupting. Children’s dentistry at Oasis Family Dentistry is designed to be a positive, gentle experience for your little one from the very start.