Caring for Your Baby’s Gums and Teeth: What New Parents Need to Know
February is National Dental Health Month, a perfect time to focus on your children’s oral health, even before their first tooth appears. Building good habits early can lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. For new parents, understanding how to care for your baby’s gums and teeth, and knowing what to expect during teething, can make the journey smoother and less stressful.
Caring for Your Baby’s Gums
Oral care begins long before teeth come in. A baby’s gums can harbor bacteria that, if left unchecked, may lead to early dental issues. Here’s how to care for your baby’s gums:
- Clean gums daily. After feeding, use a clean, soft, damp washcloth or a silicone finger brush to gently wipe your baby’s gums. This helps remove milk or formula residue and keeps their mouth clean.
- Avoid sugary drinks. Babies don’t need sugary drinks like juice. Breastmilk, formula or water (for babies over six months) is sufficient for hydration and nourishment.
Teething: What to Expect
Teething can be an exciting but challenging phase. Here’s what you need to know:
- When does teething start? Most babies begin teething around 4-7 months, but it’s normal for teeth to appear earlier or later. The lower front teeth (central incisors) usually come in first.
- Signs of teething. Common signs include drooling, fussiness, chewing on objects and swollen gums. Some babies may also experience disrupted sleep or mild discomfort.
- Soothing teething pain. You can soothe sore gums with:
- A clean, chilled (not frozen) teething ring or washcloth.
- Gentle gum massages with a clean finger.
- Over-the-counter pain relief, like infant acetaminophen, if recommended by your Goldsboro Pediatrics’ pediatrician.
Caring for Baby Teeth
Once the first tooth appears, it’s time to step up your baby’s oral care routine:
- Brush baby teeth twice a day. Use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a smear of non-fluoride toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice). Don’t use a fluoride toothpaste until your child is 2 years old. Look for a toothpaste without dyes, preservatives or sweeteners.
- Introduce dental visits early. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your baby’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of the first tooth appearing.
- Prevent bottle decay. Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle as prolonged exposure to milk or formula can lead to cavities.
- Don’t spread cavity-causing bacteria. Avoid sharing utensils, food, toothbrushes with your baby to avoid passing on your bacteria.
Building Healthy Habits for Life
Good dental health starts with early habits and as your child grows, they’ll learn from the routines you model. Encourage brushing, avoid sugary snacks and make dental visits a positive experience.
By starting early and staying consistent, you’ll help your baby develop strong, healthy teeth and set the stage for a lifetime of good oral health. For more tips on teething and oral care, don’t hesitate to reach out to your care team at Goldsboro Pediatrics.
Happy National Dental Health Month!
Sources:
Oral-B.com
Thrive Dental and Orthodontics
KidsHealth
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