Your baby’s milk teeth matter from the very first one. They help your child eat and speak, and they hold space for the permanent teeth forming underneath. Caring for them early prevents pain, decay and dental fear later on.
Before the first tooth
Even before any teeth appear, gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feeds. This clears milk residue and gets your baby used to having their mouth cleaned.
When the first tooth arrives
The first tooth usually appears around six months. As soon as it does, start brushing twice a day with a soft baby brush and a smear (rice-grain size) of fluoride toothpaste, increasing to a pea-sized amount from age three.
Protect against “bottle decay”
Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle of milk, formula or juice. Sugars pooling around the teeth overnight are a leading cause of early childhood cavities. Offer water if your baby needs a bottle to settle.
- Brush twice daily — morning and before bed
- Use fluoride toothpaste (a smear under 3, pea-sized for 3–6)
- Never share spoons — cavity-causing bacteria can pass to your baby
- Offer water, not juice, between meals
The first dental visit
Plan your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday. Our pediatric dental care is built around making that first visit calm and positive. If teething is making things tricky, see our teething guide.
Have a question about your child’s teeth?
We’re always happy to help. Book a gentle visit at Tiny Tooth Dental, Vrindavan Colony.
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