When Should You Start Brushing Babies’ Teeth?

Oral hygiene should begin well before the first tooth erupts. Early routines accustom the baby to cleaning and reduce bacterial load on gums and tongue.

Before Teeth (0–6 Months)

• Start: From birth.
• Goal: Keep the mouth clean and build the habit.
• Method: After feeds—especially at night—wipe gums and tongue gently with a damp gauze or silicone finger brush.

First Tooth (~6 Months)

• Start: Begin brushing as soon as the first tooth appears.
• Brush: Soft, small-headed baby toothbrush.
• Toothpaste: A rice-sized smear of fluoride paste under dentist guidance; modern pediatric guidelines support fluoride from the first tooth.

After Age 3

• Paste Amount: When the child can avoid swallowing, increase to a pea-sized amount.
• Duration/Frequency: Brush twice daily for 2 minutes, especially after breakfast and before bed.
• Parental Role: Parents should brush or closely supervise until 6–7 years of age.

First Dental Visit

See a pediatric dentist after the first tooth erupts (~6 months) or by the first birthday for hygiene coaching and early-childhood caries prevention.