Your child is growing so fast! It seems like just last week they were born, but they’ve been teething and now you’re starting to see the beginnings of two bottom teeth. Although they will later fall out in life, it’s important to keep your child’s baby teeth healthy, as they can have a dramatic influence on the development of adult teeth. After that, they’ll get braces. We know, it’s a scary thought. But before we get too ahead of ourselves, let’s talk about proper oral hygiene for your baby now. They still have many years before their baby teeth fall out, so how should you care for them?
Before all their baby teeth even grow in, you can care for child’s gums. While you don’t want to brush the gums, you can wipe them with a warm washcloth before bedtime. It’s a good way to clear your child’s mouth and gums of bacteria after feedings.
However, those little teeth that have begun to pop up can be brushed. At first, you don’t even have to use toothpaste; just a wet toothbrush will do. As more teeth begin to sprout, used a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and just a tiny bit of toothpaste up until age 3. After age 3, a pea-sized amount of toothpaste can be used.
Be sure to brush gently to avoid a tantrum; teething hurts! Begin to teach your child to rinse their mouth and spit when they’re 3, and they’ll gradually be able to hold the toothbrush on their own. They’ll most likely be able to brush, rinse, and spit on their own by age 5 or 6.
As long as you keep up with a regular regimen, they shouldn’t have any problems. However, you should still check your child’s teeth every once in awhile for any discoloration, spots, or holes. If you do see any of this, it might be a sign of decay. If you do notice decay, take your child immediately to the dentist.
You should take your child to their first dental appointment at age 1. At their first appointment, the dentist will most likely go over proper dental hygiene for the baby and provide you with more information about how your child’s teeth will change over the years. After the appointment, you’ll be more informed about teething, fluoride, and thumb sucking.
Keeping a child’s teeth healthy is nothing to stress over. Just maintain a proper routine, and your child’s smile will stay healthy! The best way to encourage your child to maintain good treatment of their teeth is to set a good example for them to follow.
Leikin & Baylin Dental Care of Catonsville
If you have a child that’s beginning to get their baby teeth or it’s just been a while since you’ve had a cleaning or talked to your dentist, it’s time to make an appointment. You can contact Leikin & Baylin Dental Care of Catonsville, Maryland by calling 410-747-1115 or visiting CatonsvilleDentalCare.com.