It is necessary for mothers to start helping their babies in practicing oral hygiene even before their first tooth has come out. Mothers can make use of a clean gauze material or a soft washcloth whenever they have to clean the gums of their babies. They may simply wrap it on their index finger and then wipe the gums of their babies by rubbing it gently. Although there are no teeth yet where bacteria may accumulate, it would be better to start early so the babies get used to the routine of cleaning their gums and mouth. Mothers would find it easier later to introduce the use of the toothbrush to clean their teeth.
It is also important that mothers select a toothbrush that is appropriate for babies. Some babies have their first tooth by the time they reach 6 months old while others may have it when they reach about a year. Mothers may use only a small amount of toothpaste with fluoride to clean the tooth or teeth of their babies. They will also have to clean the tongue part in order to remove any bacteria that may be thriving because it can cause bad breath later on when left on its own. Mothers may use dental floss if the surfaces of the teeth of their babies are touching each other but if they see that the teeth are still away from each other, there is no need to do it.
Babies will need enough fluoride to strengthen their tooth enamel in order to prevent the development of tooth decay. Mothers can give their babies water with fluoride and they can also use toothpaste that contains this mineral as well. However, mothers have to take note that babies below six months old do not really need to drink water with fluoride as they can get proper hydration from their breast milk or from their infant formula. They may use water with fluoride when preparing the infant formula. However, mothers should also be aware that too much fluoride is not good for their babies. Babies may develop fluorosis which shows as white spots on their teeth when they reach adulthood.
Mothers who are not sure whether they are giving their babies the right amount of fluoride may consult with their doctors. Medical experts may determine the amount of fluoride that should be given and they can also recommend some fluoride drops in case it is really needed by the babies. There are still other things that mothers should know especially in maintaining the oral hygiene of their babies. Mothers may start early in caring for the gums and for the first teeth of their babies in order to help them become healthier and stronger.
