A baby’s oral hygiene and dental care habits start before the first tooth comes in. Your baby needs to become comfortable with the idea and process of having dental care. There are clever techniques that you can use to help your baby start on the road to beautiful, healthy teeth.
Our caring dentists at Smiles by Sands are here to help you and to answer any and all of your questions. Our dentists offer information and visual aids to show how to care for your little one’s teeth and gums.
Start your baby’s dental care by massaging the gums with a warm, wet washcloth after each feeding. This will help your baby become comfortable with having his or her teeth brushed on a regular basis when the teeth begin to show. This action will also help remove any bacteria that may cause tooth decay. Massaging and wiping the gums after the teeth begin to show will feel very soothing to his or her itchy and irritated gums.
You baby’s teeth will begin to show around 6 to 12 months. Once he or she has a tooth, you may begin brushing the tooth with a soft bristle brush. We recommend brushing with water and avoid toothpaste until your baby learns to spit. You can introduce toothpaste around the age of 2 or 3. Babies enjoy the taste of toothpaste and will most likely swallow when having their teeth brushed. Over time, the ingestion of toothpaste may cause problems. Brushing with water will remove bacteria and help your baby become comfortable with a toothbrush.
Your Child’s First Dental Visit
Your child’s first dental visit is a great learning time for you and your child. This visit will help your baby become familiar and comfortable with the dental office. Your baby’s first visit can be as soon as the teeth begin to show. Dr. Jamie Sands and Dr. Jason Sands will be happy to evaluate your baby’s teeth and health. They will also be able to help guide you with dental care techniques as well as:
- Learn comfortable positions for infant dental care
- Practice roper brushing techniques
- Create an at home dental care routine and plan
- Find child safe toothpastes and toothbrushes
Dental treatments for children start at the age of three. However, it is important to start at home dental care with your baby well before the age of three. Setting good habits from the beginning will help ensure that your child will have a healthy smile. We recommend bringing your baby to our family friendly dental office to help start these healthy habits.
Please contact our family dentistry office for more information about baby oral hygiene or to set up a free consultation.
