ORAL health care for babies starts before the first tooth appears.
It plays a big role in preventing cavities and setting up healthy habits later.
Here’s a clear, age-by-age guide:
From Birth to 6 Months (No Teeth Yet)
Clean the gums daily: Gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp soft cloth or gauze once a day (especially after feeding).
Avoid putting baby to bed with a bottle: Milk or juice sitting in the mouth can lead to early tooth decay later.
Breastfeeding is oral-friendly, but clean gums after nighttime feeds when possible.
When the First Tooth Appears (Around 6 Months)
Start brushing immediately:
Use a soft-bristled baby toothbrush.
Use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).
Brush twice a day, especially before bedtime.
6 Months to 1 Year
Introduce a cup around 6 months; aim to stop bottle use by 12–18 months.
Only water in bottles at bedtime if needed.
Avoid sugary drinks and juices (even “natural” juices).
Schedule the first dental visit by the baby’s first birthday or within 6 months of the first tooth.
1 to 3 Years
Continue brushing twice daily with a rice-grain amount of fluoride toothpaste.
Parents should do the brushing (or closely help).
Do not let the child sleep with a bottle or sippy cup containing milk or juice.
Encourage healthy snacks (fruit, vegetables, cheese).
Teething Tips
Gently massage gums with a clean finger.
Use a chilled (not frozen) teething ring.
Avoid teething gels with benzocaine unless advised by a doctor.
Extra Tips for Parents
Don’t share spoons or clean pacifiers with your mouth—this can transfer cavity-causing bacteria.
Check your baby’s teeth regularly for white or brown spots.
Make brushing fun with songs and games.
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Dr. Joseph D. Lim, Ed. D., is the former Associate Dean of the College of Dentistry, University of the East; former Dean, College of Dentistry, National University; Past President and Honorary Fellow of the Asian Oral Implant Academy; Honorary Fellow of the Japan College of Oral Implantologists; Honorary Life Member of the Thai Association of Dental Implantology; and Founding Chairman of the Philippine College of Oral Implantologists. For questions on dental health, e-mail jdlim2008@gmail.com or text 0917-8591515.
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Dr. Kenneth Lester Lim, BS-MMG, DDM, MSc-OI, graduated Doctor of Dental Medicine, University of the Philippines, College of Dentistry, Manila, 2011; Bachelor of Science in Marketing Management, De la Salle University, Manila, 2002; and Master of Science (MSc.) in Oral Implantology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany, 2019. He is an Associate Professor; Fellow, International Congress of Oral Implantologists; and Fellow, Philippine College of Oral Implantologists. For questions on dental health, e-mail limdentalcenter@gmail.com./PN
