how to clean newborn tongue

To clean a newborn's tongue, the safest and recommended method is to gently wipe the tongue using a clean, damp washcloth or a piece of gauze wrapped around your finger. First, wash your hands thoroughly. Then, dip the cloth or gauze in warm water and lightly rub the baby's tongue in a circular motion, starting from the back to the front. This can also include gently wiping the gums and inside of the cheeks. This should be done once or twice a day, usually after feeding or before bedtime. There is no need to use toothpaste as there are no teeth yet. If a tongue scraper is used, it should be gentle and used carefully to avoid irritation. If the white coating on the tongue cannot be wiped away, it might be oral thrush, a fungal infection requiring medical attention. This routine helps remove milk residue, prevents bacteria buildup, and promotes good oral hygiene from an early age.