Anticipatory Guidance

Discuss with Parents:

Oral Hygiene

• Making an appointment for the infant’s first oral examination within 6 months of the eruption of the first primary tooth, and no later than age 12 months, thereby establishing a dental home.
• After the initial dental visit, making 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, making appointments for more frequent dental visits as directed by the dentist based on the infant’s needs or susceptibility to disease. Obtaining special oral health equipment (e.g., a mouth prop) to brush the infant’s teeth.
• Cleaning the infant’s gums with a clean damp cloth or toothbrush and plain water after each feeding. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head, preferably one designed specifically for infants.
• Brushing the infant’s teeth as soon as the first tooth erupts, usually around age 6 to 10 months, twice a day (after breakfast and before bed). Using a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head, preferably one designed specifically for infants, and plain water. Lifting the lip to brush at the gum line and behind the teeth. Not giving the infant anything to eat or drink (except water) after brushing at night.
• For infants at increased risk for tooth decay, consulting with a dentist or physician about brushing their teeth with fluoridated toothpaste.
• Becoming familiar with the normal appearance of the infant’s gums and teeth so that problems can be identified if they occur (see Tooth Eruption Chart). Checking 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.
• Giving 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 (see Systemic Fluoride Supplements: Recommended Dosage).
• If the infant has sore gums caused by tooth eruption, giving 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.