When to Start Cleaning Your Baby's Gums: A Gentle Guide
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When to Start Cleaning Your Baby's Gums: A Gentle Guide
No one tells you about oral care when you bring your newborn home. Between feeds, naps and nappy changes, gums are the last thing on your mind. But starting a gentle routine early makes the toothbrush years so much easier, and it takes less than a minute a day.
Start from birth
Singapore's HealthHub recommends cleaning your baby's gums every day from birth, using a clean, wet cloth. Wiping away milk residue keeps the mouth fresh, and just as importantly, your baby gets used to having their mouth cleaned long before teeth arrive.
How to do it:
1. Wash your hands.
2. Wrap a clean, damp cloth or an oral wipe around your finger.
3. Gently wipe along the upper and lower gums, then the tongue.
4. Aim for once a day to start. After the last milk feed before bed is a lovely time to build it into your routine.
When the first tooth appears
Once teeth come through, it's time to switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for babies. HealthHub advises using a fluoride toothpaste with at least 1000ppm fluoride. For children under 3 who can't spit yet, use just a smear, about the size of a grain of rice.
Brush twice a day, in the morning and before bed. Keep supervising brushing so your little one uses the right amount and doesn't swallow the toothpaste.
Your baby's first dental visit
HealthHub suggests bringing your child to the dentist when their first tooth appears or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. It's usually a gentle, friendly check, and helps your child feel at ease at the dentist from the very start.
Making it easier day to day
• Keep it calm and cosy. Sing a little song or make it part of cuddles after the bedtime feed.
• Don't worry about perfection. A quick, gentle wipe is better than a stressful struggle.
• Be ready on the go. Individually wrapped oral wipes are handy for outings, travel and grandparents' homes, when a clean cloth isn't nearby.
Our favourite for busy days
We keep RICO Baby Oral Wipes in every bag. They're made of organic cotton and pure water, individually wrapped, and gentle enough for newborn gums. They don't replace brushing once teeth arrive, but they make those early routines effortless.