Cleaning baby teeth

[Disneyland1084]

My 5 month old daughter doesn't have teeth yet, but I can tell it may be soon. I have a question about baby toothbrushes. I know you don't use toothpaste on babies, but is there anything you put on baby toothbrushes while cleaning their teeth? Also, how often and how do you clean their gums before teeth comes in?

 

[Frantasmic]

For children under 1 year old, the best thing my doctor and dentist said was to get some sterile gauze, wet it, then wipe the gums and any erupting teeth twice daily or after eating.

They have big toothbrushes and good non-fluoride toothpaste for toddlers.

 

[Annette_VA]

I've always used the Oral B Baby Tooth & Gum cleanser:

http://www.amazon.com/Oral-B-Stages-Baby-Tooth-Cleanser/dp/B000GCL772

 

[Pooh's Pixie]

My DH is a pediatric dentist. Just do what the above poster said, wiping the mouth with gauze. Later, you can use a toothbrush and make it a cooperative thing that you both do. Part of it is just to get your baby to let people (parent, dentist!) into the mouth. No toothpaste necessary til later, and don't bother with the "training" toothpastes that they can swallow. Just use a tiny smudge of toothpaste. The training toothpastes just teach them a habit (swallowing) that they'll have to unlearn. It's unnecessary and topical fluoride is good for their teeth. Good luck!