DENTAL CARE FOR YOUR INFANT

Even before your baby’s first tooth emerges, their gums can benefit from your attentive care. After nursing or bottle-feeding, wrap a clean, damp washcloth or gauze around your finger and softly massage it across your baby’s gum tissue. This routine not only removes any food remnants from your baby’s mouth but also instills the importance of daily oral hygiene from an early age.

Avoid providing your baby with any sweetened liquids like flavored beverages or soda. Even the sugars found in fruit juice, formula, and milk (including breast milk) can contribute to decay, underscoring the importance of regular tooth and gum care. Additionally, ensure your baby never falls asleep with a bottle, as sugary liquids lingering on their teeth can lead to early childhood decay, commonly known as baby bottle cavities.

As you begin to notice more teeth appearing in your baby’s mouth, you can officially start brushing with toothpaste! Avoid using toothpaste that contains fluoride for the first two years unless advised to do so by your dentist, as fluoride can be dangerous for your little one. During this time, make sure you only use a little bit of toothpaste. Have your little one practice spitting the toothpaste out after brushing to prepare her for fluoride toothpaste, which should not be swallowed at any age.

When your baby’s first tooth appears, it’s time to switch to a baby toothbrush. Typically, there are two options available: a long-handled toothbrush that you and your baby can hold together, or a finger-puppet-like brush that slips over your pointer finger. In either case, the bristles are soft and sparse. If your little one doesn’t react well to the introduction of a toothbrush, don’t give up; switch back to a damp washcloth for a few months, then try the toothbrush again. During the teething phase, your child may feel the urge to chew on various objects. A baby toothbrush as a teether can become a favorite toy during this period.

We understand the first trip to see us can be uneasy for both baby and parents. But rest assured, our team at Wake Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry strive to make it a positive experience for everyone! You may be wondering when is the right time to schedule that first appointment? According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, your child should first have a dental check-up within six months of the first tooth erupting or by their first birthday. Establishing a dental home early ensures a lifetime of healthy oral habits!