What tooth brushing routine should you adopt with your baby? How many times a day should you brush their teeth? What toothpaste and toothbrush are suitable for babies?

First, after research and consultation, it seems unlikely that a baby would have tartar on their teeth except in cases of significant and severe neglect. The enamel on a baby’s first teeth is more sensitive to cavities than the permanent ones that follow. Their gums are also more sensitive and need to be handled with care. This is why you should brush each tooth as it pops out, ideally three times a day, but at a minimum two, with a more intense session at night. Parents should use light pressure, like brushing a ripe tomato without piercing the skin. That’s why we recommend a toothbrush with soft bristles. Brush softly but more often.

Since infants will frequently snack, eat meals and drink milk, you need to try to prevent cavities as repeatedly absorbing foods keeps acidity levels higher in their mouth, which is a significant source of dental issues. When you give your infant something to drink, either in a bottle or sippy glass, keep the drinking period short unless it’s water. After eating or drinking milk, you may want to brush their teeth, especially after they sleep to avoid cavities caused by residue in their mouth.

For toothpaste, many products on the market are suitable for young babies. It needs to contain fluoride. If it doesn’t (like Tom’s of Maine), it’s useless because fluoride helps prevent cavities in infants. Dora toothpaste is excellent. After talking to my dental advisor, you should avoid products that contain triclosan, for example, Colgate Total. For the amount of toothpaste, you should use no more than a grain of uncooked rice up to three years of age. This will ensure your baby doesn’t swallow any. You also don’t need to use toothpaste for every brushing but use it at least once a day.

Ultimately, electric toothbrushes are not adapted to infants because they need to be used safely, and parents don’t have full control over babies that usually squirm and complain during brushing. Additionally, fragile gums could be damaged. This can be considered later, depending on the child.

Marie Fortier
The Baby Expert