When Should I Start Brushing My Child’s Teeth?
You can start cleaning your baby’s gums just a few days after birth. Gently wipe along the gum line with a clean washcloth or gauze, or use a toothbrush made specifically for infants. This will help remove bacteria from Baby Bottle. It’s also the first step toward routine dental care. By the time your child’s first tooth erupts (often anywhere from four months to fourteen months) you’ll be ready. Continue to use a damp cloth or toothbrush to clean the gums and along the surface of each tooth. Don’t forget to clean in between any teeth that touch.
Visit our previous blog post on “Tips for Brushing Children’s Teeth” for more information.
What Are Some Infant Do’s and Don’ts?
Avoid putting your child to bed with a baby bottle, even if it contains milk.
Also, skip juice or acidic drinks at this age. Do not try to clean your child’s pacifier by putting it in your mouth first, and never dip a pacifier in sugar or syrup. Your dentist or pediatrician may recommend fluoride drops. Contact your dentist if your child’s gums are swollen and bleeding, especially if followed by a fever. If your child’s teeth appear thin or discolored, if you see dark spots on any teeth, or if your child’s teeth appear pitted, or break easily.
For more information on tooth decay in babies visit our dental blog post on “Your Baby’s Oral Health”.
How Can I Help My Child Through Teething?
The first sign of teething may include irritability, trouble sleeping, or biting and chewing. You might notice drooling or signs of redness around the mouth from drool, gums may be visibly red or swollen, and you might feel a slight bump or rough edge of the erupting tooth. Often, sore gums can be sooth by gently rubbing a chilled gauze pad along the gums. Some babies find comfort chewing on a cool teething ring (never frozen). If your baby is especially cranky, infant’s acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help. Never use teething medications with benzocaine.
Sedki Dentistry in Commerce Twp, MI is a complete family dental clinic that offers services for all dental health concerns. Our experienced staff is professional and committed to the uncompromised care to each of our patients. Dr. Sedki has been creating healthy and confident smiles for over 15 years. Early dental care can lead to a lifetime of healthy and beautiful smiles. Call us today for an appointment!