Your little one gives you so much to smile about – and when you do, you it makes you wonder if you’re caring for your child’s teeth in the way that you should be. Even though your child’s baby teeth will eventually come out, you want to protect their oral health, but where do you start? In this post, learn the best tips from your family dentist in Toledo on caring for your baby’s teeth. Learn what the team at Dental Group West recommends to set your child up for a lifetime of smile success.
#1 – Start Young
As your respected dentist in Toledo, Dr. Richard Thomas, Dr. Tracey Poole, and Dr. Robert Weisenburger know that starting young is crucial to ensuring oral health in kids. Even as babies, you should wipe their gums with a clean, warm, wet washcloth. You can also try a special rubber infant toothbrush that fits like a thimble over your finger to protect your infant’s gums, or use a moistened piece of sterile gauze. Whatever method you use, you should start cleaning before their teeth come in.
#2 – 1×1
Since dental problems can arise as soon as teeth come in, the American Dental Association (ADA) and our team follow the rule of one by one – meaning, your child should have their first dental visit no later than their first birthday. After that, they should get regular checkups every six months just like everyone else in the family. We’ll be able to examine for proper development, get to know your child, and help their smile stay healthy their whole life long.
#3 – Make It Fun
Since kids can be worried about going to the dentist simply because it’s a new experience, let them know going to the dentist is fun. Watch cartoons, read stories, and use these coloring books pages and fun worksheets to make the idea of oral healthcare enjoyable for kids.
#4 – Prevent Bottle Decay
Kids are especially prone to tooth decay. So, to prevent cavities in baby teeth, don’t allow your baby to fall asleep with a bottle of anything other than water. The sugars in formula, fruit juice, and even breastmilk can lead to enamel problems. And, be sure to wipe their teeth down with a washcloth or wet sterile gauze after every feeding.
#5 – Use A Tiny Amount Of Toothpaste
As soon as teeth erupt in the mouth, you can help strengthen enamel by using a tiny bit of toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice. When kids turn three, you can use the amount to a pea-sized dot, and use gauze when your child is still a baby, or a special toothbrush designed for youngsters.
Now that you know some tips on how to care for your baby’s teeth, schedule your appointment with Dental Group West to give your child a radiant smile for life!