Taking Care of Your Infant’s Teeth
From the day your little one sprouts their first tooth, it is important for parents to do what they can to support their baby’s dental health. The dental health experts at Skyline Smiles are here to share some tips and tricks to help parents set their infant up for good dental health.
Why It’s Important to Look After Baby Teeth
Having healthy teeth is essential when it comes to your baby’s general health and wellness. From eating to communicating and jaw development, good dental hygiene from a young age can help your baby to grow and develop properly. Without proper care, it can cause infection and disease.
Caring for Their Teeth at Home
When it comes to looking after your little one’s teeth, dental care begins at home! These tips can help you to take the best care of your baby’s teeth as soon as they start coming in.
Teething Tips
For most babies, their teeth begin to break through their gums between 4 and 7 months. During the teething process, it’s common for babies to become fussy and irritated as their teeth continue to come in. If left unaddressed, this can make your little one avoid eating or even interfere with their sleeping schedule.
Some easy tips to help soothe their sore gums include:
- Massage their gums with a clean finger.
- Put their teething toys in the fridge to keep them cold.
- Freeze clean, wet washcloths for them to gnaw on.
- Ask your doctor about baby acetaminophen (Tylenol).
If you have additional questions or concerns about your baby’s teeth coming in, be sure to give your family dentist a call.
Dental Care Tips
Whether your little one has two teeth or almost a full set, it is important for parents to take care of their baby’s teeth like they would their own. When developing your baby’s dental care routine, be sure to include the following tips:
- Before teeth erupt, use a clean damp cloth over their gums to remove bacteria.
- Use an infant toothbrush and child-safe toothpaste to gently brush their teeth twice daily.
- Floss between their teeth when they begin to touch.
- As they get older, teach them the importance of spitting out their toothpaste.
- Avoid putting babies to sleep with a bottle of milk, juice, or formula.
- Switch from a bottle to a sippy cup after 6 months old.
- Never dip a pacifier in anything sweet.
- Ween your child off of their bottle by the age of 1.
- Talk with your dentist about fluoride.
When to Schedule Their First Dental Appointment
While it may seem early to some, it is advised that babies have their first visit with a pediatric dentist when their first tooth comes in or by their first birthday. This is because the first dental appointments are educational for the parents and to perform a well-baby check on their first few teeth.
If you think your child may have an issue with their teeth or gums, be sure to mention your concerns at the time of your child’s appointment. If you have a family history of being sensitive to cavities or your child has bottle or pacifier habits that are hard to break, your pediatric dentist will be able to give you advice to help support their dental health.
Dental Care In Santa Clarita
At Skyline Smiles, we pride ourselves in offering high-quality, patient-focused dentistry to the Santa Clarita community. From routine exams and cleanings to cosmetic dentistry, you can rest assured knowing that your dental health is in the most capable hands.
To learn more about our dental services, or to schedule an appointment, call (661) 244-4036 to speak with a member of our team today.