Hi everyone,
I am a new mom, and I'm worried about my baby's oral hygiene. I want to ensure that my baby develops healthy oral hygiene habits from an early age, but I'm not sure where to start. I've heard that cleaning their gums and teeth is important, but I'm not sure how to do that.
I would love to hear some suggestions from other parents or dentists on how I can encourage healthy oral hygiene habits for my baby. If you have any tips or recommendations for products that have worked well for your own children, I would be grateful to learn from your experience.
Thank you in advance for your help!

Hello!
As a father of three kids, I can tell you that establishing good oral hygiene habits is crucial from an early age. I would recommend starting by wiping your baby's gums with a soft cloth after feeding. This will help remove any milk residue and prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria.
Once your baby's teeth start coming in, you can start using a toothbrush. Choose one with soft bristles and a small head, specifically designed for babies. You can also start using a fluoride-free toothpaste at this stage. Just use a small amount, about the size of a rice grain.
When your baby is old enough to start brushing on their own, offer them choices to make the experience fun. You can give them a selection of toothbrushes and toothpaste flavors to choose from. Make brushing teeth a part of their daily routine, so they get used to it and don't resist it.
Apart from brushing and flossing, healthy eating habits play a vital role in oral hygiene. Encourage your child to eat a nutritious diet, including plenty of fruits and vegetables, and limit sugary or starchy snacks.
Finally, as a parent, be a good role model by practicing healthy oral hygiene habits yourself. This will help teach your child the importance of good oral hygiene and ensure that they develop healthy habits that they will carry into adulthood.
I hope you find these tips helpful in promoting good oral hygiene habits for your baby.