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Though your baby has yet to sprout teeth, it’s still important to provide him (or her) with superior oral care. Attending to his mouth at such an early age reduces his chances of developing cavities after his teeth have erupted and gets him used to having his oral cavity cleaned.
At the office of Suzanne Clift, DDS, we pride ourselves on building strong, lasting relationships with our patients and on our high standards of service. You can feel confident that we will treat your child’s oral health using patience and compassion, as well as expert knowledge and skills.
Here are three ways to provide your bundle of joy with excellent oral care.
Clean your baby’s gums. There’s no need for a toothbrush or toothpaste until his first tooth appears. After a feeding, remove sugar and bacteria by wrapping one of your fingers around a clean damp washcloth and gently rubbing his gums.
Once that initial tooth comes through, brush your child’s teeth two times a day with a toothbrush made specifically for a small child. Their bristles are very soft, and their heads are extremely small. Using a smidge of mild-flavored, non-fluoridated toothpaste, gently brush every side of the tooth and its surrounding gum.
When subsequent teeth arrive next to each other, use floss to clean between them. Yes, those 20 primary teeth eventually fall out, but maintain them well so they do so ahead of schedule. One of their many purposes is to hold places for permanent teeth.
Parents should also reduce the spread of bacteria, which spur tooth decay and cavities, to their babies’ mouths. Do it by using only water to rinse pacifiers and bottle nipples; not taste-testing food or beverages for your child; monitoring your child for anything he could put in his mouth; and not sharing with him anything that’s been in your mouth or the mouth of another child.
Starting an infant off with good oral care paves the way for his lifelong habit of excellent dental hygiene. At the office of Suzanne Clift, DDS, you can feel confident that we have thorough and expert proficiency regarding any service your child needs. For more information about our practices, call today for an appointment.
By Suzanne Clift, DDS
March 28, 2022
