How old can babies brush their teeth?

Brushing teeth is a good habit for our dental health. If we brush our teeth in the correct way every morning and evening, our gums will be healthier, and the probability of yellowing and cavities will be much lower. The habit of brushing teeth needs to be cultivated from an early age, especially parents need to help children develop the habit of brushing teeth. So at what age can parents start teaching their children to brush their teeth?

Most babies at this stage have not yet grown teeth, but mothers still need to clean their babies' mouths every day. The correct way is to let the baby drink some warm water first, and then use gauze dipped in warm water or light salt water to gently wipe his gums and mouth.

Babies over 6 months old and under 2 years old: Use a "finger toothbrush"

At this time, the baby has grown deciduous teeth, and the mother can use a "finger toothbrush" with friction to brush the baby's teeth flexibly. Prepare warm water first, and use a "finger toothbrush" to clean your baby's teeth, tongue, and spaces between teeth.

The baby's deciduous teeth have all grown in, and mother can brush his teeth with a toothbrush. But please note that the toothbrush and toothpaste used by your baby must be specially designed for infants and young children.

Babies over 3 years old: Learn to brush their teeth independently

Brushing teeth independently is a basic skill that babies must master. Mothers can try to let their babies imitate the way they brush their teeth, and then correct their wrong brushing posture. Over time, they will develop a good habit of brushing teeth independently.

1. The bristles should be soft and the brush head should be small so that it is easier to reach all the baby's teeth, including the innermost teeth.

2. The brush surface is flat and the top of the bristles are round so as not to scratch the baby's gums.

3. Adult toothbrushes are not suitable for young children because the brush head is too large and uncomfortable for babies to use. The bristles may also be too hard and will wear out the baby's teeth and gums.

4. Choose a toothbrush with a harder handle to maximize muscle motor skills.

5. Place the toothbrush vertically and keep it dry. Make sure the bristles of each toothbrush do not touch each other to prevent bacteria from being transferred from one toothbrush to another.

6. When the toothbrush becomes worn, for example, when the bristles become scattered, it is time to replace the toothbrush.

7. In any case, you should replace your toothbrush at least every 4 months, and be sure to replace your toothbrush after you are sick, because the old toothbrush may contain bacteria.