For a 9-month-old, which is the recommended approach to dental care?

• A. Begin brushing with toothpaste
• B. Brush with water only
• C. Use fluoride supplements daily
• D. Delay dental care until age 3

Answer: (B)

Starting oral hygiene early is about establishing a clean mouth and safe habits, not about fluoride exposure from toothpaste at this age. For a 9-month-old, brushing with water only is recommended because the child’s swallowing of toothpaste is likely and can lead to fluoride ingestion. A soft infant toothbrush (or a clean cloth wrapped around a finger) with plain water is used to gently clean the gums and any erupted teeth after feeds, helping remove sugars and bacteria and forming a routine.

When to introduce toothpaste? Once the child can spit reliably and won’t swallow large amounts, a tiny amount of fluoridated toothpaste can be added under guidance from a pediatric dentist or pediatrician. Fluoride supplements are not routinely given to infants and are prescribed only if fluoride deficiency is a concern and advised by a clinician. And starting dental visits early is beneficial, rather than delaying until age 3, to monitor development and establish preventive care.