Answer: He won’t be able to brush his own teeth sufficiently well until he’s around 9 years of age. Until then you will need to do them after he’s had a go himself. Use a soft headed brush, no toothpaste until he’s around 2 years and then start using a children’s specific toothpaste only.
Check with your local council to ensure there is fluoride in your water supply. If you brush his little teeth at least once a day, at bath time then this should be sufficient.
The next time you go to your own dentist take your baby with you so he gets used to what’s involved. Avoid kissing him on the mouth, blowing on his food to cool it and putting his dummies, teats or spoon in your own mouth. This is how the bacteria which cause tooth decay are transferred.
Most kids don’t enjoy having their teeth brushed but it’s so important to do it that parents really need to persevere and use distraction to support the child through it.
Cheers
Jane