There may be no greater thrill than welcoming a new member into your family. There may also be no crazier time in your life than the weeks, months, and years after doing so.
Amid the new parent madness, the dental health of a toothless infant may not top your list of concerns. While there seemingly is always a more pressing need with a new baby, this is not something to be neglected. Some of the steps you take before and immediately after the emergence of your baby’s first teeth can prove foundational for a lifetime of healthy and beautiful smiles.
Today we’re discussing the challenges of maintaining your baby’s oral health and laying out some of our best practices.
The Challenges of Infant Oral Health
It's easy to assume that oral care is unnecessary in the absence of teeth. However, caring for a baby’s oral health at these early stages is vital. It also presents certain challenges.
With or without teeth, a person’s mouth is a hospitable setting for bacteria. And as solid food enters the mix, so too does the risk of plaque buildup and cavities. Establishing a sound and disciplined dental care routine for an infant or a baby can be tricky, as they’re unable to communicate their feelings and are often averse to new sensations like a toothbrush.
Tips for Early-Life Oral Health and Hygiene
- From the beginning, wash your baby's gums gently with a soft, damp cloth after feedings.
- Schedule a dental visit around your child's first birthday to ensure proper tooth, gum, and jawbone development.
- With the first tooth arrives, brush it using a tiny bit of fluoride toothpaste on a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- To prevent potential dental issues, discourage thumb-sucking and prolonged pacifier use.
- Don’t put your baby to bed with a bottle of milk or juice.
- As snacking preferences emerge, limit sugary foods and beverages.
- Once your child is ready (usually around age 2) implement supervised self-brushing.
A Wilmington Dentist Dedicated to Your Baby’s Oral Health
If you’re in Wilmington, DE, and want an experienced and skilled dental team to help guide you and your baby through the crucial early stages of dental development, contact Justison and Gladnick Family Dentistry to schedule your baby’s first dental appointment!
