My Dr. Dental Blog

Dr. Dental takes pride in being a comprehensive dental care provider. This is why we complement our high quality services, affordable treatments and friendly staff with a broad range of dental news and dental tips. Our dental blog is packed with important information that can benefit you and your whole family, ensuring that your next trip to one of our dental offices in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and New Jersey does not stretch your budget, consume your time or produce more aches and swelling.

Brushing Baby’s First Teeth –Care for Perfect Smiles!

brushing baby's first teeth

Your baby’s first teeth are cause for celebration! With every early memory comes some responsibility, a baby’s teeth need constant care. It’s important to brush your baby’s teeth the right way – more than 45% of U.S. children aged 2-11 have cavities. What’s more, the typical child has 1-2 decaying teeth. But with some practical application with your baby’s teeth, those numbers can get better!

To properly brush your baby’s teeth, we recommend you:

  • Clean gums before teeth appear. This helps keep your baby’s gums clean by wiping away bacteria and other germs. Use a clean, damp washcloth and gently wipe your baby’s gums after feedings and before bedtime. Start this care regimen at the age of 3 months.

Eventually, the first teeth will appear. The first thing you should do is…

  • Get the right toothbrush. Go with a wide handle – perfect for little hands – and shorter profile. This will help avoid pushing the toothbrush too far back in the mouth. Also, make sure the bristles are extra soft.
  • Hold your baby comfortably. Cradle your baby in one arm, so you can brush with the other.
  • Apply small dab of fluoride toothpaste and water to toothbrush. Remember, your baby’s mouth is super-sensitive. Use lukewarm water to lessen the “shock” of this new experience.
  • Use gentle circular motions to clean teeth and gums. Whether your baby has one or five new teeth, they all need cleaning. But don’t forget the gums – that’s where new teeth may be coming in any day!
  • After you’re done, hand the toothbrush to your baby. Let your baby explore. See if your baby starts to pick up on your example. After a few weeks, your baby will be eager to “go it alone” – but not yet! We don’t recommend solo brushing until around two years of age.

That’s it – stick to this tooth care plan, and your baby will have the brightest smile of the bunch!

Share this Image On Your Site

Scroll to Top
Closest locations based on your current GPS
Dr. Dental: Dentist in Springfield, MA (Springfield Commons)

1059 Boston Rd. Ste A
Springfield, MA 01119

413-351-3900
Book Now Pay Bill
Dr. Dental: Dentist & Orthodontist in Lyndhurst, NJ

542 New York Ave
Lyndhurst, NJ, 07071

201-623-3355
Book Now Pay Bill
Dr. Dental: Dentist in Billerica, MA

480 Boston Rd. Unit 114
Billerica, MA 01821

978-330-3400
Book Now Pay Bill
Dr. Dental: Dentist in Lynn, MA

270 Union St.
Lynn, MA 01901

(781) 691-3010
Book Now Pay Bill
Dr. Dental: Dentist in Manchester, CT

240 Spencer St.
Manchester, CT 06040

860-645-8000
Book Now Pay Bill
Dr. Dental: Dentist in East Haven, CT

723 Foxon Road
East Haven CT 06513

203-466-7400
Book Now Pay Bill
Dr. Dental: Dentist in Clifton, NJ

41 Ackerman Ave
Clifton, NJ 07011

973-531-4444
Book Now Pay Bill
Dr. Dental: Dentist in Bridgeport, CT

594 Pequonnock St.
Bridgeport, CT 06604

203-336-4444
Book Now Pay Bill
Dr. Dental: Dentist in Haverhill, MA (Water St.)

2 Water Street
Haverhill, MA 01830

978-372-1999
Book Now Pay Bill
Dr. Dental: Dentist in East Boston, MA (Maverick Square)

45 Maverick Square
East Boston MA 02128

617-567-3800
Book Now Pay Bill