Explanation

Even before multiple teeth erupt, oral hygiene is important. For infants with only a few teeth, gently wiping the teeth and gums with a clean, soft, damp cloth twice a day (especially after the last feeding and before bed) helps remove plaque and sugar residue, preventing early childhood caries.

A pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste is generally recommended for children age 3 and older who can spit effectively. For children under 3, only a smear (rice-grain size) of fluoride toothpaste should be used if brushing, and only if recommended by a dentist or physician due to fluorosis risk. While a soft-bristled infant toothbrush can be introduced, simply wiping with a cloth is sufficient and often easier initially. Offering a bottle of water at bedtime is acceptable, but it doesn't replace mechanical cleaning; bottles containing milk or juice should be avoided at bedtime to prevent caries (as discussed in example Q43).