Health & Fitness
What You Need To Know About Your Newborns Oral Care
Pediatric dentists at The Smilist Dental provide you with tips and top rated dental care to keep your baby's teeth happy and healthy!
Infant & Toddler Oral Care (Birth - 3 Years of Age)
Caring For Your Baby’s Gums and Teeth
It is never too early to teach your child about oral hygiene! Before a tooth erupts, it is important to care for your child’s gums. Simply rub a soft wet washcloth gently over their gums twice a day. This is a preventative measure because even though bacteria in the mouth usually can't harm the gums before the teeth emerge, it can be hard to tell when the teeth are starting to push through. It will also ease the transition to a toothbrush once teeth emerge if the routine is set early.
As your child's teeth start to appear (generally around 6- 18 months), look for a baby toothbrush with a small head. At this stage you should be gently brushing your baby’s teeth for two minutes, twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. Use a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. For now, your baby's teeth are probably far enough apart that you don't have to worry about flossing. Most dentists recommend starting to floss when tooth surfaces touch and you can't clean them with a toothbrush.
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Foods tips for your baby
A healthy, balanced diet is important for your child’s health. It can also play a large role in keeping their teeth and gums healthy. Stay away from giving your child an abundance of sweet foods such as fruit, dried fruit and juice. Starches can also contribute to cavities, so be mindful of when you’re giving these foods to your child. Do it a mealtime when you plan on brushing their teeth after. Serving these items with water is also helpful. Don't put your baby to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, juice, or sweetened liquid. These liquids feed bacteria in the mouth that cause tooth decay.
When should your baby start going to the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommend that you take your child to the dentist within six months after her first tooth erupts, or by her first birthday, whichever comes first. Visit your local Smilist in Rockville Centre and make your appointment today!