My 5-month-old daughter is teething, but she hasn't gotten her
first tooth yet. How should I care for her teeth when they come
in? Good dental care starts even before a child's first tooth
comes in. Running a damp washcloth over a baby's gums daily will
help clear away harmful bacteria. Parents can brush kids' teeth
as they come in with an infant toothbrush, using water without
toothpaste. A pea-sized amount of toothpaste may be used with
supervision around age 2 or 3, when kids are able to spit it
out. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that kids
start seeing a dentist by their first birthday. Reviewed by:
D'Arcy Lyness, PhD Date reviewed: October 2012 Have a question?
Email us. Although we can't reply personally, you may see your
question posted to this page in the future. If you're looking
for medical advice, a diagnosis, or treatment, consult your
doctor or other qualified medical professional. If this is an
emergency, contact emergency services in your area. |American
Dental Association (AD