A Beginner's Guide to Baby Oral Care

We're excited to bring you this beginner's guide to child toothbrushing, compiled from the most frequently asked questions by our wonderful community. We’ve recently collaborated with Nourishing Bubs to bring you even more helpful information on how good nutrition and oral care go hand in hand. 

What is Nourishing Bubs?

Nourishing Bubs, founded by Paediatric Dietitian Olivia Bates, offers a nutritious, convenient way for parents to introduce solids to their babies. Using 100% Australian produce with no added sugar, salt, or preservatives, Nourishing Bubs' snap-frozen products retain maximum nutrients, giving parents a fresh, healthy option without the hassle.

My Baby Has One Tooth, Do I Start Brushing Now? 

Yes, you should! Even a single tooth can develop cavities if not properly cared for. Early dental care can help prevent future dental problems and protect the development of permanent teeth. Remember, it's never too early to start teaching your child about good oral hygiene. By starting early, you're setting them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Other benefits of early dental care: 

- Reduces the risk of future dental problems: Early dental care can help prevent more serious dental issues later in life, such as gum disease and tooth loss.

- Establishes a positive relationship with the dentist: Starting dental care early can help your child feel comfortable and at ease with the dentist.

- Promotes overall health: Oral health is connected to overall health. Good oral hygiene can help prevent infections and other health problems.

What Should I Use to Brush My Baby's Teeth?

For infants, a soft, silicone finger brush is a gentle and easy-to-use option. You can switch to a small, soft-bristled toothbrush as your child grows. Once they can spit out toothpaste, use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.

Fluoride is like a friendly helper for teeth. It helps keep them strong and healthy, so using toothpaste with fluoride is important, especially for baby teeth.

Here at Pigeon, we’ve developed a range of professional products to help your little one in the early stages of toothbrushing. Our Finger Toothbrush, co-developed with a paediatric dentist, is perfect for gently cleaning those tiny new teeth and giving your baby's gums a nice massage. One of our lovely reviewers, Lynn, wrote:

 “Recommend - I liked it, easy to use and comfortable for my baby’s teeth.”

We’ve also developed a Training Toothbrush, which helps your baby learn how to hold a toothbrush. It has a thick, easy-to-grab handle and a soft, gentle head that feels good on their gums. There's also a safety shield to keep the brush from going too far. A review made by D’s dad wrote:

“Best in the market - I’ve tried many other training toothbrushes for my baby and this is by far the best! It’s soft on his gums, and we feel safe to leave him alone with it! It works both as a trainer and a teether.”

How Long Should I Be Brushing My Baby's Teeth For?

Brushing time should grow along with your little one! For babies, a few seconds of gentle brushing is enough. As they get older, aim for about a minute. By the time they're older kids, they should be brushing for two full minutes.

Remember, it's not just about the time but also how well you brush. Make sure to reach every nook and cranny of those teeth to get rid of any plaque or bacteria hiding there. A timer can be a fun way to help your child understand how long they need to brush.

What Do I Do If My Baby/Infant/Toddler Won't Let Me Brush Their Teeth?

Making toothbrushing a fun and positive experience can help encourage your child to cooperate. Try singing songs, playing games, or letting them brush their own teeth (under supervision). Be patient and set a good example by brushing your teeth regularly. Check out Pigeon’s page dedicated to information on how to navigate the early stages of child tooth brushing: My first dental lesson. Be sure to watch some of the video clips that discuss ‘Burning questions about your baby’s teeth’.

If you're still having trouble, consult your dentist for additional advice. They may have some helpful tips or suggestions for toddler teeth.

How can good nutrition support infant oral care?

Good nutrition plays a vital role in infants' oral health. Calcium, found in dairy products, helps build strong teeth and bones. However, even from natural sources, excessive sugar intake can contribute to tooth decay. Establishing healthy eating habits early on can set the stage for a lifetime of oral health.

How does Nourishing Bubs preserve the nutrients in their food options to make sure bub gets the best?

Nourishing Bubs is committed to providing the best nutrition for your little one. Our food is made with fresh, local ingredients and carefully cooked to preserve essential vitamins and minerals. We use gentle methods that lock in nutrients and ensure our food is ready to serve straight from the freezer.

What are the benefits of the solid starter pack?

The Solid Starter Pack is a convenient and nutritious way to introduce your baby to solid foods. It includes a variety of pre-made purees that are perfectly portioned and balanced to provide essential nutrients and encourage healthy eating habits. The pack is budget-friendly, minimises food waste, and helps your baby develop a love for vegetables from the start.

What sets Nourishing Bubs’ Allergen Intro Pack apart from other ways of allergen testing?

Nourishing Bubs' Allergen Intro Pack is a unique product that offers a safe and effective way to introduce common allergens to your baby. Unlike other methods, our pack introduces allergens gradually and allows you to monitor your child's reactions. Each allergen is packaged in a resealable sachet, making it easy to use and store. The pack includes all 14 common allergens, providing a comprehensive approach to allergen introduction. The allergens are in powdered form, making them easy to mix into your baby's food. With Nourishing Bubs, you can safely and effectively introduce allergens to your baby and monitor their reactions.

We hope this guide has answered your questions about starting your child's toothbrushing journey. By making oral care fun and focusing on good nutrition, you’re setting the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Remember, starting early and staying consistent will help your child build great oral habits that last.