How to care for your newborn’s gums

Babies have less saliva than adults, so they need extra help getting rid of bacteria in their mouth. After washing your hands with soap and water, use a damp wash cloth or gauze pad to gently rub your baby’s gums, cheeks and tongue to wipe away any food or liquids.²

Note: Do not brush your newborn’s gums with a toothbrush³

All bottles, nipples, rings and caps should be cleaned with soap and water after each use. And since a baby’s immune system doesn’t mature until they are around 2–3 months old, their feeding items should be sterilized as well.⁴ To learn more, see how to clean, sanitize and store infant feeding items.

In addition to germs and bacteria, dirty pacifiers can spread thrush—a common fungal infection that causes white patches and uncomfortable sores in a baby’s mouth. When a pacifier gets dirty, a simple cleaning with hot water and dish soap can do the trick.⁵

Using the same spoon or licking a pacifier clean may seem harmless. However, you could be passing germs and microorganisms that put your baby at risk. Try to use soap and water or pacifier wipes to clean a pacifier when possible.⁶

Gum care for newborns has a lot of benefits, including getting your child comfortable with regular dental care. This way, when teething starts or your baby’s first tooth pops through, you’ll both be ready!

If you’re a current Humana dental plan member, you may be able to add a dependent to your plan at any time. If you’re looking for a family dental plan, Humana offers a broad range of plans with varying levels of coverage, many with affordable monthly premiums. To see plans and prices in your area, check out our Humana dental insurance page.