Good oral hygiene starts very early. Early examination and preventive care will protect your baby's smile now and in the future. Beginning at birth, you can clean your child’s gums with a soft infant toothbrush and water. Some parents find it easier to wipe the gums with a moist soft washcloth. Remember that most small children do not have the dexterity to brush their teeth effectively. Unless it is advised by the dentist, do not use fluoridated toothpaste until age 2-3, and then only a pea-sized amount.

• Monitor children while brushing
• No running or walking with toothbrush ever
• Baby gums should be massaged with cloth/soft brush from infancy
• Flossing should start with children as soon as all baby teeth are in place