San Benito County

Health & Human Services Agency

Hollister, California

Infant Oral Health

  • Wipe your babies’ gums with a soft white washcloth after feeding, whether it is breastfed or bottle fed, it will remove the bacteria present in the mouth.
  • You can also use a small finger brush to clean the first teeth.
  • Do not put baby to sleep with a bottle of milk, just water.
  • Do not kiss baby on the lips or share utensils or toys they put in their mouths; this is how bacteria is transmitted.
  • Help your child with his brushing until the age of 8 years. Floss as soon as two teeth are next to each other, and they will need help.
  • Establish a dental home when the teeth come in or by the child’s first birthday. Let your baby become familiar with a dental office. Talk to your dentist about foods, drinks, snack, and oral health tips.
  • Teething: Rub your babies’ gums gently or have baby bite on something cool like a wash clothes, teething ring or toothbrush.
  • Stay clear of products with benzocaine, it can make your baby sick.
  • Use only a smear of toothpaste with fluoride when brushing and get fluoride varnish if your child is at a higher risk for getting decay.
  • Have more questions? Call us: 831-637-5367
baby-teething
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