Welcome to Baby Safety Month! As parents, we’re always looking for ways to keep our little ones healthy and happy. One area that often gets overlooked is pediatric oral care. From the moment those adorable gummy smiles appear, we can start taking steps to ensure our babies’ dental health. Our team of dental professionals is here to guide you through the basics of caring for your baby’s mouth and teeth.
In this blog, we cover everything you need to know about infant oral care. We’ll discuss when to start dental care for your baby, how to clean those first tiny teeth, and tips for preventing tooth decay. We’ll also share some advice on managing teething discomfort and when to schedule that important first visit to the pediatric dentist. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap for keeping your baby’s smile bright and healthy from day one.
Importance of Early Oral Care
At our dental practice, we believe it’s never too early to start caring for your baby’s oral health. Even before those adorable little teeth make their appearance, maintaining gum health is crucial. Early oral care helps keep unerupted teeth healthy and encourages proper tooth development. It’s also an excellent way to build good habits that will last a lifetime.
When to Begin Pediatric Oral Care
We recommend starting oral care routines right from birth. Even though most babies don’t have teeth before three months, cleaning their gums daily is still important. This practice not only keeps the mouth clean but also gets your baby accustomed to the feeling of oral care.
Techniques for Cleaning Baby’s Gums
Wash your hands thoroughly.
Wrap a clean, damp washcloth or piece of gauze around your finger.
Gently wipe your baby’s gums, making sure to get into any crevices where milk might have settled.
Do this at least twice a day, especially after night feedings.
As your baby grows, you can switch to a soft-bristled infant toothbrush or a rubber finger brush. These tools are designed to be gentle on your baby’s delicate gums while still providing effective cleaning.
Remember, oral hygiene isn’t just about cleaning. It’s also about prevention. Keep pacifiers, bottles, and other feeding items clean to reduce harmful bacteria in your baby’s mouth. By starting these practices early, you’re setting the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
When to Expect the First Tooth
As parents, we’re often eager to see that first adorable tooth peek through. Most babies develop their first tooth between 6 and 12 months, but don’t worry if your little one is a late bloomer babies might not have any teeth by their first birthday! Typically, the lower front teeth (lower central incisors) are the first to appear. By age 3, most children will have all their baby teeth.
Infant Dental Tips
Once that first tooth arrives, it’s time to start brushing! We recommend using the two-adult technique, also known as ‘knee to knee:’
Two adults sit facing each other with knees touching.
Lay the child across both laps, head on one parent’s lap (the brusher) and legs on the other’s.
The brushing parent uses their non-dominant hand to lift the child’s lip and cheeks.
Angle the toothbrush towards the gums at a 45-degree angle.
Brush in gentle circular motions, covering all tooth surfaces.
Avoid sugary drinks
Finish bedtime and nap time bottles before going to bed.
Importance of Fluoride
Using fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth appears.
Drinking fluoridated tap water.
Considering professional fluoride treatments during dental visits.
As dentists, we often see parents struggling with their teething babies. Teething can be a challenging time, but understanding the signs and knowing how to provide relief can make it easier for both you and your little one.
Signs of Teething
Teething typically starts around 6 months of age, though it can begin anytime between 4 and 12 months:
Excessive drooling
Irritability or crankiness
Chewing on objects
Sore or tender gums
Slight increase in temperature (but not a fever)
Safe teething remedies
When to Consult a Dentist
While teething is generally manageable at home, contact us if:
Your baby seems particularly uncomfortable
Teething interferes with eating or drinking
You notice any signs of infection or prolonged symptoms
Remember, your baby’s first dental visit should be scheduled by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears.
We recommend scheduling your baby’s first dental visit within six months of their first tooth appearing or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. This early start is crucial because teeth can begin to decay as soon as they emerge. By being proactive, we can help ensure your child’s smile stays healthy for life.
About Dr. Fred Wong of Blue Ocean Dentistry in Glendora, California
Dr. Fred Wong and the staff at Blue Ocean Dentistry use the latest available dental treatments, and materials. Everything we use makes a marked difference in our patients’ experiences. We help our patients achieve optimal dental health. We creatively combine dental science and artistry — which can literally redesign your smile. Since even a subtle change in your smile will help you to project self-confidence and high self-esteem, we love helping you feel good about yourself. We deliver the finest dental care at the most reasonable cost and accept most dental insurance plans as well as CareCredit. For more about the dental treatment plans we offer or to schedule an appointment, call today (626) 852-6999.
