At Smile Lynn Pediatric Dentistry, we understand the importance of providing prevention dentistry in Apollo Beach as the first defense against poor oral health and tooth decay. As a parent, one of the best things you can do for your child is to instill good dental hygiene habits in them from when they are a baby. By following good oral hygiene practices for your child in the first year of their life, you can set them up for a lifetime of strong, healthy teeth.
Oral Care Before Teeth Come In
Most people believe that oral care and hygiene start when your baby gets their first tooth, but this is not the case. It is vital to take care of your baby’s gums before the first teeth erupt. Beginning at birth, cleaning your baby’s mouth once a day can prevent the build-up of bacteria left behind from breastmilk or formula and get your baby used to the feel of brushing or cleaning the mouth.
To gently and effectively clean your baby’s mouth, use a piece of clean gauze or a soft cloth. Dip the cloth or gauze in water, wrap it around your pointer finger, and gently rub along your baby’s gum line to wipe away any excess bacteria and relieve any soreness or pain from teething.
How to Spot Baby’s First Teeth
If you have already formed an excellent habit of routinely cleaning your baby’s gums, then you will likely notice when their first tooth is ready to erupt. Here are some common signs of teething to watch out for:
- Drooling more often
- Irritated or swollen gums
- Rubbing face
- Pulling ears
- Fussing more than usual
You can help ease your baby’s teething discomfort by comforting both their gums and emotions. You can try some of the following tips:
- Use a cold, wet cloth when you clean baby’s mouth
- Massage baby’s gums with a clean finger
- Let your baby use teething toys
- Ask your pediatric dentist in Apollo Beach, FL about pain medication
- Wipe away any drool to prevent the development of a rash
Looking After the First Tooth
Typically, a baby’s first tooth will appear sometime between five and seven months. Once baby teeth have started to erupt, it is important to begin brushing. Since you will have already been cleaning your baby’s gums for months, your baby should be used to the sensation of brushing, making the process easier and less stressful for both you and your baby.
Brushing your baby’s teeth only takes a few minutes, and a small amount of toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice, and your baby should be able to spit out the excess. For the first tooth, toothpaste isn’t necessary, but it is a good idea to introduce a small amount of non-fluoridated toothpaste to build up the strength of the tooth. Make sure to choose a toothbrush with soft bristles that won’t irritate their gums. Gently brush the side of each tooth, and clean between the teeth as well.
When to Visit Pediatric Dentist
It is best to schedule an appointment at a pediatric office near you when you notice your baby’s first tooth coming through. This first visit is a great time to ask any questions about your baby’s oral health and how to maintain it, as well as ask for advice on how to monitor and encourage the development of your child’s teeth. At Smile Lynn Pediatric Dentistry, we encourage that you seek preventative dentistry near you for your child as soon as possible so that you can be assured that your baby will grow up to have a beautiful, healthy smile!