BABY’S FIRST TEETH
Caring for your baby’s oral health begins before the first tooth erupt. The AAPD notes that research has shown that babies can “catch” cavities from their caregivers. In 71 percent of the cases, the mother is the source. Research indicates that the cavity-causing bacteria known as Streptococcus mutans can be transmitted from mothers to infants even before teeth erupt. The better the mother’s oral health, the less the chance the baby will have problems.
Caring For Gums
You can use a soft, moist washcloth or a piece of gauze to gently wipe down your baby’s gums. This should be done after each feeding or at least twice daily to cleanse the mouth of bacteria and present them from clinging to her gums. This bacteria can damage your infant’s teeth as they come in so it is important to clean the gums.
Brushing Baby’s Teeth
When the first baby teeth start to pop up, you can graduate to a toothbrush. Look for toothbrushes with a soft brush, small head, and a large handle. At first, you only need to wet the toothbrush and gradually add in a non-fluoride toothpaste at least in the first 2 years of you’r infant’s life. Around the third year, you can increase to about a pea sized amount o fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to brush well.
At a young age, dexterity in young children are not formed enough to allow them to brush by themselves. You should help your child brush until he/she can hold the toothbrush, rinse, and spit without assistance. Usually this happens around 6 years of age.
Keep on the lookout for any signs of baby tooth decay — brown or white spots or pits on the teeth. If you or your pediatrician notices any problems, take your child to a pediatric dentist for an exam.
First Dentist Visit
Even if there isn’t a problem, you should bring your child to the dentist by age 1. We will give you advice about baby tooth care, teething, fluoride, thumb sucking and any other questions you might have.
When does one plus one equal zero? ONE baby tooth + ONE pediatric dental visit = ZERO cavities. First dental visits are mostly educational. The AAPD recommends that every child visit the dentist by the child’s first birthday. The American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend a child visit the dentist by age one as well. This “well baby check” for the teeth can establish a dental home and helps ensure that parents learn the tools necessary to help children remain cavity-free.
Creating Good Dental Practice
Children love watching parents do grown up things. They will enjoy watching you brush your teeth at least twice daily. This is a great opportunity to show them how to hold the toothbrush and brush correctly. Setting a good example for your child early on will be easier for you in the long run.