You’ve waited for nine months to hold your newborn baby in your arms. Taking care of their overall health, including oral health, should be a top priority. 

Healthy primary teeth are essential for chewing nutritious food, but they can be prone to tooth decay as early as 6 to 10 months when the first tooth appears. 

As new parents, it is crucial to monitor your baby’s oral hygiene and check for signs of bacterial growth to maintain their dental health.  

How to care for your baby’s gums during infancy? 

The bacteria may not harm the baby’s mouth before the teeth appear. However, proactive gum care can prevent gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis. 

Practising healthy habits while taking care of your child’s dental health from birth prevents or reduces tooth decay in infants. The healthy habits include: 

• Much before the baby’s first two pearly whites are popped out, clean your baby’s gums reguraly. 
• Dip a small cloth or gauze in warm water and rub your baby’s gums and tongue. This process may be a little fussy intially, but your baby will adapt over time. 
• Brushing the little one’s teeth inside-out and tongue is essential to prevent bad breath. 
• Baby gums should be protected by a toothbrush with very soft bristles. 
• Replace the toothbrush after 2 to 3 months. 
• Once your baby is a year old, use a little amount fluoride toothpaste. 
• Clean your baby’s pacifier using soap and water. 
• Replace pacifiers when they become worn or broken.  
• Avoid using Sweetened foods and liquids (such as sugar, honey, or syrup) on pacifiers because they can cause tooth decay. 
• Never clean a pacifier with saliva before giving it to your baby as it can transmit bacteria that can cause tooth decay. 

The first dental visit takes place by age 1. In addition to this, the dentist will answer the parents’ question about their baby’s oral health.