When it comes to your child’s oral health, it’s important to create healthy habits from an early age. Healthy gums in infancy will contribute to healthy baby teeth in early childhood, which can lead to healthy permanent teeth for a lifetime. Here are a few tips on how to care for your baby’s oral health as they start developing teeth:
- Clean Your Baby’s Gums
- Brush Your Baby’s Teeth Every Day
- Schedule a Dental Visit By Their First Birthday
Even before your baby has any teeth, you can gently wipe their gums using a damp, clean washcloth or gauze after feedings or twice each day. This helps keep gums healthy and prepares your little one for brushing later on when they do have teeth.
Once your baby’s teeth begin coming in, switch from a washcloth to a baby toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Use the brush and a dab of toothpaste the size of a grain of rice to gently clean their teeth and gums twice a day. This helps remove oral bacteria and food particles that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. As a bonus, the pressure on teeth and gums can feel soothing to a teething baby. Brushing your child’s teeth before bed is the most valuable session, so be sure to not skip it even if you and baby are very tired!
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your baby’s first dental appointment around the time your child turns one year old. If you have any concerns about your baby’s oral health, be sure to bring them up during this visit.
First Visit to the Dentist
Your child’s first visit to our office will be quite straightforward. Our team will examine your baby’s gums, lips, tongue, cheeks, and teeth. We’ll brush their teeth, ask you about your baby’s oral hygiene, and record information about your family’s dental history. We strive to help parents and patients feel as comfortable as possible so their early visits help them develop a positive association with the dentist!
To ask our team any questions about your child’s first visit to the dentist or to schedule an appointment at Austin Pearls Pediatric Dentistry, please contact us today.