### Baby's Tooth Brushing Routine **When to Start:** You should start caring for your baby's gums as soon as they are born. Use a wet soft cloth or a finger brush to wipe their gums and remove bacteria. This helps prevent damage to their baby teeth as they begin to arrive and gets them used to having their mouth brushed. **Brushing Teeth:** As soon as teeth begin appearing above the gumline, brush your child's teeth for 2 minutes at least twice per day. One of those times should be after their last meal and before bed. Schedule your baby's first visit with a pediatric dentist following the eruption of their first tooth or before their first birthday. **Choosing a Toothbrush:** Start with a washcloth or finger brush. Once teeth appear, progress to a child-sized brush with soft bristles. As your child grows, you can introduce brushes with nubs or teether-style brushes. Finally, use a toothbrush with soft bristles and toothpaste when your child has teeth. **Fluoride:** The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using a small smear of fluoride toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice) for children under age 3. For children ages 3 to 6, use a pea-sized amount. Always supervise your child while they are using toothpaste and keep it out of reach. Excessive fluoride consumption can damage tooth enamel. **Tips:** If your child resists brushing, try using fun-shaped brushes or making it a playful activity. Encourage them to spit out the toothpaste as they become able. Regular dental visits are important to ensure proper development and to get professional advice on oral hygiene.