Welcoming a new baby into the world is an exciting and overwhelming adventure. Amidst diaper changes, feedings, and naps, one can overlook the importance of caring for your little baby’s emerging teeth. Even if baby teeth are temporary, they play an important role in speech development, chewing, and guiding the eruption of permanent teeth. Therefore, setting a dental hygiene routine right from the start is important—the earlier, the better. This blog is for all new parents who have no or little idea about how to care for baby teeth.
Start cleaning your baby’s teeth before they emerge. Make a habit of wiping the gums with a soft, damp cloth after every feeding. This helps remove milk or formula remains, preventing bacterial growth and keeping their gums clean.
Introduce a habit of brushing as soon as the first tooth appears. Use a soft-bristled infant toothbrush with a small head specifically designed for tiny mouths. It is advised to brush twice a day with a rice-grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
As your child grows and more teeth erupt, encourage them to brush twice daily with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Teach them to spit out the toothpaste after brushing, but don't worry if they swallow a little—fluoride toothpaste is safe in small amounts. Setting a dental care routine can be tough, so make sure to keep these sessions fun and playful.
Sugar has a bad effect on health and doesn’t contain any nutrients that can benefit the child during their growth years. Strictly avoid sugar or foods that have sugar in them, especially packaged foods that contain hidden sugars. When your toddler transitions to solid foods, focus on other nutritious options like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Schedule your child's first dental visit around their first birthday or when their first tooth appears. Early visits help establish a positive relationship with the dentist and allow for early detection of any potential issues. The dentist will provide personalized guidance on brushing, flossing, and diet to keep your child's teeth healthy.
Children learn by observing their parents. They mimic the same behaviors. So, brush and floss your teeth along with them. Let them know the importance of dental hygiene from the very start.
The teething phase is no less than a challenge; it affects both babies and parents alike. To soothe your teething baby’s gums, offer them a chilled teether or give them a wet washcloth to gnaw on. If they are cranky and uncomfortable beyond your control, consult your pediatrician or dentist about safe pain relief options.
Avoid sharing utensils or cleaning pacifiers with your mouth, as this can transfer bacteria to your baby's mouth.
If your child uses a pacifier, choose one that's orthodontic-friendly to help prevent dental problems.
Supervise brushing until your child is around 7 or 8 years old to ensure they're doing it correctly.
Establishing good oral hygiene habits early on sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles. By following these simple steps and making dental care a positive part of your child's routine, you'll be giving them a gift that lasts a lifetime—a beautiful, healthy smile!
As we said before, the earlier, the better. Establishing good oral hygiene habits at a young age can reap long-term benefits.
If you are concerned about your child’s oral health, then schedule a consultation at The Dental House—the best kids dentist in Koparkhairane.
Address:
Row House 2, Sector 3, Plot 91, Near Hotel Spices, Koparkhairane , Navi Mumbai 400709
Clinic Timming:
Monday To Saturday:
10.30 AM To 2.00 PM &
5.30 PM To 8.30 PM
Sunday: Closed
Email Id & Contact Number:
[email protected]
+91 96199 44888
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