Tiny Smiles, Big Care: Caring for Infant Teeth and Gums

From the very first days of your little one’s life, establishing a gentle oral hygiene routine lays the foundation for a lifetime of bright, healthy smiles. Dr. Birch and his team of dental hygienists are here to support your family with kind guidance, expert care, and a welcoming environment in our Grand Junction office.

When to Begin Brushing — It’s Never Too Early

Before the First Tooth: Caring for Gums

Even before your baby’s first tooth appears, you can begin nurturing oral health:

• Gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp, soft washcloth or gauze after each feeding. This simple step helps remove bacteria and food bits, introducing your baby to the soothing comfort of a gentle routine.

Once the First Tooth Erupts (~6 months)

• As soon as the first tiny tooth begins to emerge—typically around 6 months—it's time to begin brushing. Use a small-headed, soft-bristled baby toothbrush with a thin sliver of non-fluoridated toothpaste. Brush gently twice a day, ideally once in the morning and once before bedtime. (This is a consensus recommendation from the ADA, AAP, and AAPD to begin brushing as soon as the first tooth emerges.)

The “How-To” of Gentle Brushing

1. Use a gentle technique: Hold the toothbrush at a 45° angle and brush using soft, circular motions, covering all surfaces—front, top, and back.

2. Toothpaste:

   • Under age 3: Dr. Birch recommends using a non-fluoridated toothpaste as children tend to swallow toothpaste at this age.

   • Ages 3–6: Use a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste, supervising to prevent swallowing.

3. Cleaning between teeth: Once two teeth touch, begin flossing gently once a day.

4. Supervision matters: Continue brushing for them—or closely supervising—until they can spit properly, usually around age 6.

Why Early Care Matters

• Baby teeth are important: They enable chewing, support speech development, and hold space for permanent teeth.

• Decay can begin right away: Tooth decay can start as soon as teeth erupt—a compelling reason to begin brushing early.

• Foundational habits: Introducing gentle oral cleaning from infancy helps your child adapt—making brushing feel normal, not scary.

When to Schedule Your Baby’s First Dental Visit

The AAP recommends establishing a “dental home” by your baby’s first birthday, or within six months of their first tooth erupting—whichever comes first.

This first visit is like the baby’s well-checkup for their mouth—Dr. Birch will check for early signs of decay, guide brushing habits, discuss fluoride, and help you feel confident in nurturing your child’s oral health journey.

At Aaron Birch Family Dental, We’re Here for Your Family

• From those first gentle gum-wipes to their first tooth and beyond, our caring team is ready to guide you.

• Schedule your child’s first dental visit as soon as your baby’s first tooth appears—or no later than their first birthday.

• We make visits fun, stress-free, and always tailored to your child’s comfort and your family’s needs.

Let’s nurture that healthy smile together. Call us today to book your little one’s first checkup. We can’t wait to meet your family!