How Often Should You Brush Infant Teeth

Many parents ask us when to start brushing their baby’s teeth and just how often to do it. These questions are completely normal, especially in those first few months when routines are still forming and baby teeth are just starting to peek through. Knowing how and when to care for those early teeth can make things smoother for both parents and little ones.

Learning how to brush infant teeth early on helps build comfort with daily routines and the idea of dental care in general. Little habits now can set the stage for a smile that stays healthy as your child grows. Let’s walk through what to expect, what to use, and how to make brushing feel simple and stress-free.

‍When to Start Brushing Your Baby’s Teeth

Most babies get their first tooth around six months of age, but timing can vary a bit. Some babies cut teeth earlier, and others later. There’s no need to wait for a full set of teeth before starting oral care.

• Begin by cleaning your baby’s mouth gently before any teeth appear. A soft, damp cloth wrapped around your finger works well to wipe the gums after feedings or before bed.

• Once the first tooth comes in, usually on the bottom front, it’s time to switch from wiping to brushing.

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for infants. These are small, gentle, and made for tiny mouths.

Caring for gums and early teeth in this way helps keep everything clean and starts building a routine your baby will begin to recognize.

At Ready Set Smile Pediatric Dentistry, we encourage parents to bring their child in for a “first dental visit by their first birthday” or within six months after the first tooth erupts, just as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

How Often to Brush Infant Teeth

We recommend brushing infant teeth twice a day: once in the morning and again before bedtime. These early patterns teach babies what to expect and give their mouths a clean start and end to each day.

Keeping things simple and consistent can help make brushing easy to manage:

• Softly brush in the morning to clear milk or formula from the night before.

• Brush again in the evening, making it the last thing before sleep.

• At this stage, focus less on getting every angle perfect and more on helping your baby stay calm and become used to the toothbrush.

Short sessions are all you need. Keep your tone relaxed and your motions gentle. Over time, even a quick brushing becomes second nature for you and your child.

What Type of Toothbrush and Toothpaste to Use

Choosing the right tools makes a big difference. It is always best to keep things soft, small, and baby-friendly.

• Pick a toothbrush made just for babies. The head should be small, with very soft bristles. Many come with easy-grip handles to help you keep control.

• When using toothpaste, go with just a smear, about the size of a grain of rice. This is enough to clean the teeth without overdoing it on fluoride.

• Use light, circular motions to remove milk or food. It doesn’t take long or require pressure. It’s more about getting your baby used to having their mouth cleaned.

Everything you do during brushing sets a tone. Early care is about cleaning and about helping your baby feel safe and included in everyday tasks.

We offer guidance on choosing the best toothbrush and toothpaste for your child during every infant oral health check, so parents feel confident starting these habits at home.

Tips for Making Brushing Easier

Brushing a baby’s teeth doesn’t always go smoothly, and that’s okay. Some babies love it, others squirm or pout. A little flexibility often helps both of you feel better about it.

Try these ideas to make toothbrushing feel more pleasant:

• Sit your baby on your lap facing out, or secure them in a highchair. This helps you get close enough without too much wiggling.

• Keep brushing linked to something familiar like the morning bottle or evening bath. Consistency helps your baby know what’s coming next.

• Bring singing or play into the routine. Singing a short song, making funny faces, or offering a favorite soft toy can keep the mood light.

Brushing might not always be fun, but it doesn’t need to feel like a chore. Small smiles go a long way toward building comfort.

‍When to Seek Help with Brushing Challenges

At some point, most families run into a little pushback or confusion about brushing. That can come from teething discomfort, changes in routine, or just curiosity turning into frustration.

If you’re having trouble, it’s okay to look for support.

• Talk to a pediatric dentist if your baby regularly resists brushing or reacts strongly. They can offer ideas that are realistic for your child’s age and stage.

• Keep an eye on teething signs like drooling, chewing on fingers, or changes in feeding. Teething can make brushing uncomfortable, so extra patience helps.

• Sometimes just switching to a different toothbrush shape or texture can make a big difference. There is no one-size-fits-all with infants.

Trusting your observations and asking for ideas when needed can help get brushing back to a calmer place.

Our team at Ready Set Smile Pediatric Dentistry provides extra tips and practical strategies for families who face challenges with daily brushing, including helping children with special healthcare needs.

Helping Your Baby Build a Lifetime of Healthy Habits

Those early months of brushing may feel small, but they build the first layers of good oral care. A soft toothbrush and a calm, familiar routine teach your baby that dental care is just part of the day.

• Brushing early means fewer surprises later. Dental visits tend to go more smoothly when babies are already used to having their mouths checked and cleaned.

• Even if your baby doesn’t have many teeth yet, the brushing habit makes later stages, like flossing or brushing back molars, much easier.

• Infants thrive on rhythm. That’s why brushing before breakfast or right after story time can create lasting touchpoints to build on.

By brushing twice a day, using gentle tools, and staying open to changes as your baby grows, you create something bigger than clean teeth. You shape habits that build comfort, trust, and lifelong health from those early routines right there at home. For families in Westchester, NY, where busy schedules and cold-weather mornings can get in the way, choosing approachable, simple routines helps brushing stay consistent through every season.

Infant tooth care doesn’t have to be perfect. Just regular, calm, and full of encouragement. Each time you brush, you’re giving your baby more than a clean mouth. You’re giving them a chance to learn that caring for their smile is something they can grow into confidently and without fear.

At Ready Set Smile Pediatric Dentistry, we know that building healthy habits early can make a lasting difference, especially when it comes to helping your child feel confident about brushing. We’re here for families in Westchester, NY, through every stage of oral development, starting with your child’s very first tooth. Our team is always happy to guide you on introducing routines or choosing the best tools for your baby. Learn more about when and how to brush infant teeth in a natural and stress-free way. Call us anytime to schedule a visit or to ask about your baby’s smile.