3 Simple Tips to Prevent Uncomfortable Tooth Decay in Your Baby
Childhood tooth decay is the number one chronic childhood illness, causing pain, problems with eating, improper speech development and learning difficulties. Caring for your child’s teeth from birth is one of the most important things you can do for a lifetime of good dental health. Try these dental tips for babies to keep your child’s teeth healthy and clean throughout their life.
Start Caring for Teeth Early
If you care for your child’s teeth from birth, routine dental care will become a part of their daily routine and not something they fight. Start by using a gentle washcloth to wipe your child’s gums after their bottle or nursing session soon after they are born. Once their first tooth emerges, use a gentle toothbrush and a rice-sized amount of toothpaste to clean their teeth in the morning and at night.
Visit the Dentist During Your Child’s First Year
Your baby will properly get their first tooth between six and nine months of age. As soon as it emerges, Lenoir pediatric dentists recommend scheduling your baby’s first appointment. Many children fear the dentist, picking up on the feelings and anxiety from their parents. Beginning dental appointments early in life will help your child to feel less anxious at appointments as they age. Schedule a check-up every six months in order to catch any problems early and make sure that your child’s teeth are developing properly.
Don’t Share Eating Utensils
Many parents clean a fallen pacifier by sucking on it with their own mouth or give their toddler bites from their plate with their own fork. While these acts may seem helpful, they are dangerous for baby dental hygiene. Sharing utensils with your child introduces harmful bacteria into your baby or child’s mouth, causing tooth decay to occur. Always use separate utensils and clean pacifiers with warm water and soap.
Call Our Office to Schedule Your Child’s Next Appointment Today
Don’t wait until your child is in pain or has a discolored tooth. Schedule an appointment for a check-up and exam with our gentle and caring Lenoir dentist today. Regular dental check-ups along with these dental tips for babies will help prevent tooth decay and give your child a great start for a lifetime of healthy dental care.