By when can i start using a toothpaste for my baby?

During the early stages of tooth development, be especially gentle with your baby's teeth and gums. Use a soft-bristled baby toothbrush or finger brush and a light touch when cleaning your baby's new teeth. You only need to use water at this stage - no toothpaste necessary, unless recommended by your baby's dentist. Use the toothbrush to softly massage his gums even where there are no exposed teeth. This gets your baby used to the feeling of the toothbrush in his mouth and lets him learn that brushing is a pleasant experience, not something that should be frightening or irritating. Toothpaste should not be used on babies younger than the age of two, because babies cannot expectorate (spit it out). Fluoride is a good thing in the right amount at the right developmental stage, but not during infancy. Start your little one on fluoride-free infant and toddler toothpaste, such as My First Colgate, then when your dentist recommends switching to a fluoride toothpaste or when your child is around two years old. To be certain of the right time to switch your child over to fluoride toothpaste, discuss your child's fluoride and dental care needs with your dentist or pediatrician.