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- Make an appointment for the infant's
first dental visit within 6 months of the eruption
of the first primary tooth, and no later than age
12 months.
- After the initial dental visit, make the next appointment
for the infant according to the schedule recommended
by the dentist, based on the infant's individual
needs or susceptibility to disease.
- For infants with special health care needs, make
appointments for more frequent dental visits as
directed by the dentist based on the infant's
needs or susceptibility to disease. Obtain special
oral health equipment (e.g., a mouth prop) to brush
the infant's teeth.
- Clean the infant's gums with a clean damp
cloth or toothbrush after each
feeding. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a
small head, preferably one designed specifically
for infants.
- Brush the infant's teeth as soon as the first
tooth erupts, usually around age 6-10 months,
twice a day (after breakfast and before bed). Use
a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head, preferably
one designed specifically for infants. Dispense a smear of fluoridated toothpaste on the infant's toothbrush. Lift the lip to brush at the gum line and
behind the teeth. Remember not to give the infant
anything to eat or drink (except water) after brushing
at night.
- Become familiar with the normal appearance
of the infant's gums and teeth so that problems
can be identified if they occur. Check the infant's
gums and teeth about once a month by lifting the
infant's lip to look for decay on the outside
and inside surfaces of the teeth.
- Give the infant age 6 months or older fluoride
supplements only as recommended by a dentist
or physician based
on the infant's risk for developing tooth
decay and the known level of fluoride in the infant's
drinking water.
- If the infant has sore gums caused by tooth eruption,
give the infant a clean teething ring, cool spoon,
or cold wet washcloth. Other options include giving
the infant a chilled teething ring or simply rubbing
the infant's gums with a clean finger.
 
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