Should I start cleaning my baby's gums even before teeth come in?
It's not necessary. Some dentists recommend wiping a baby's gums once or twice a day with a damp washcloth or piece of gauze wrapped around your finger. You can do this if you like, but there's no evidence that the habit will prevent tooth decay.
However, getting your baby used to having his or her mouth cleaned as part of the daily routine could make it easier to transition to toothbrushing later on. If you're interested, try wiping your baby's gums at bath time. You don't need to use any toothpaste yet. Simply wrap the cloth or gauze around your index finger and rub it gently over the gums.
What's the best way to brush my baby's teeth after they start coming in?
As your child's teeth start to appear (generally around 6 months), look for a baby toothbrush with a small head of soft bristles. (If your child is healthy and still hasn't sprouted his or her first tooth by the end of the first year, don't worry – some children don't start getting them until 15 to 18 months.)
Use a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste – just a dot the size of a rice grain or a thin smear. Fluoride is very important because it strengthens your child's tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities. But be sure to use just a little. Children who swallow too much fluoride can develop a condition called fluorosis, which can cause permanent white spots on their adult teeth.
Brush your baby's teeth twice a day – once in the morning and once before bed. Brush gently on both the outside and inside surfaces of your baby's teeth – or tooth, as the case may be. Don't worry about rinsing after brushing, since you're using just a tiny amount of toothpaste and the water would wash too much of the fluoride away.