Dental Checklist for Infants

1. Schedule a Dental Visit by Age 1

Your child should see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of the first tooth erupting. Early visits help build comfort with dental care and allow your dentist to catch any early concerns.

2. Clean Your Baby’s Gums

Before the first tooth even appears, use a clean, damp gauze pad or soft cloth to gently wipe your baby’s gums after feedings and at bedtime. This sets the foundation for a healthy mouth.

3. Start Brushing Baby Teeth

Once baby teeth emerge, brush them twice a day with a soft-bristled, infant-sized toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. As your child grows, you can increase to a pea-sized amount.

4. Begin Flossing Early

When two teeth begin to touch, start flossing between them once a day. This helps remove plaque in areas that a toothbrush can't reach.

5. Wean from the Bottle by Age 1

Whether breastfed or bottle-fed, your child should begin transitioning to a cup around their first birthday. Extended bottle use, especially with sugary drinks, can increase the risk of cavities.

Keep an Eye On:

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

Never put your baby to bed with a bottle of formula, milk, or juice. These liquids contain sugars that can lead to early childhood cavities. If a bedtime bottle is needed, fill it with water only.

Signs of Teething

Babies typically get their first tooth between 6 and 12 months, though it can happen earlier or later. Common signs include drooling, fussiness, biting, and mild coughing. For comfort, offer a chilled teething ring or cool washcloth.

Pacifier Use

Pacifiers can be soothing, but prolonged use beyond age 3 may affect your child’s bite and tooth alignment. If weaning is difficult, talk to your dentist about strategies to transition away from the pacifier gently and effectively.

A healthy smile begins in infancy. Establishing good oral hygiene habits early can set your child up for a lifetime of better dental health. Let us know if you have questions; we’re here to help every step of the way.