Good oral care begins even before we have teeth, as babies need proper gum care as well. As soon as your little one has his first bath, you should be paying attention to the health of those gums. No toothpaste is necessary, but it is recommended you wipe his gums with a piece of gauze or a clean, wet washcloth. Why should you do this? Even though the majority of oral care kicks in when we get teeth, you won't necessarily notice right away when the first teeth push through. Getting a head start on dental hygiene will ensure a good beginning, and will also help with the teaching of toothbrushing once your child is older and has a full set of teeth.

After that first tooth has broken through, which usually happens around six months of age but can vary by child, then you will want to purchase a toothbrush designed especially for babies. A "training" toothbrush kit such as Teach Me by MAM is a great place to start. With a graspable brush with a handle long enough for an instructing parent and learning child to share, you can teach even young babies the beginnings of proper dental care. If you decide that you would like to use a baby-friendly toothpaste, talk to your pediatrician to see if it's appropriate for your child specifically, and then ask about Gerber's Tooth & Gum cleanser , which is fluoride and saccharin free.

As baby grows into a toddler, oral care demands even more of a positive emphasis each morning and night, as you now need to teach your little one a bit more independence. Purchasing a kid friendly brush and paste set can get kids on the right track. So choose your child's favorite color and get them going on that brushing morning, noon and night.

Another important part of oral care is to know what's in your water. Some communities have fluoride in the water to promote good tooth development. However, many cities are now outlawing this practice, and other water sources may contain a dangerous amount. You can call your local water district to find out what is specifically in your water. If your H2O turns out to be fluoride free and you'd like to add it to your baby or child's agenda, then ask your pediatrician about the fluoride drops available for some infants.

Good oral care starts in the home, with mom and dad setting the best example. So inspire your young child with a positive atmosphere and the proper tools long before that first birthday.