As a parent, seeing your baby's first tooth is no more thrilling milestone. Although this is the starting point of your child's oral health, it is also time to begin early care for healthy teeth and gums. As you begin this new stage of parenting, learning how to tend to your baby's mouth—before and after the eruption of the first tooth—will get your child off to a lifetime of happy smiles. If you're looking for a pediatric dentist near me in Kalispell or just seeking more information on caring for your infant's teeth, this manual will provide all of the necessary steps to follow as your child develops.
Before that first tooth comes in, your baby's gums are the focus. This is a crucial step that many parents miss. Since birth, the gums are essential to your baby's mouth, and caring for them can prevent future dental problems. After every feeding session with the breast or bottle, wipe your baby's gums with a damp, clean washcloth or gauze. This eliminates any food residue, sugars, and bacteria that may cause tooth decay in the future.
Developing a gum-care routine will also make your baby accustomed to regular oral hygiene and set them up for successful tooth brushing once the first teeth appear. It’s essential to start this practice early—before teeth even appear—so your baby gets used to the sensation and is less resistant when brushing their first tooth.
As soon as that first tooth erupts—typically at about six months of age—it's time to add a baby toothbrush to your baby's oral hygiene regimen. For this age, a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head works best. Be sure to get a toothbrush designed for babies, as they still have tender mouths and teeth. You may select a long-handled brush that you hold with your baby or a finger brush that slides over your finger. Toothpaste isn't needed at this stage—merely dip the brush in water and gently brush your baby's tooth.
Your infant won't necessarily like brushing at first, and that's just fine. Babies are finicky when something new is added to their daily lives. But stick with it. If they don't like the toothbrush, revert to a clean washcloth until they're willing to take up the toothbrush once again.
When your baby's teeth come in, it's time to add a little toothpaste. For kids under three, apply only a minimal amount of fluoride toothpaste—about the size of a grain of rice. Fluoride prevents cavities and makes enamel strong. When your baby can spit, which should be sometime between age two or three, you can add a pea-sized amount of toothpaste to their toothbrush.
As you brush, ensure you clean all areas of each tooth gently. To really clean, brush the front, back, and top of your teeth and the gumline. You might also brush your tongue to loosen bacteria, being careful since your baby's mouth is sensitive.
Several usual dental ailments in infants may be avoided by taking care. Baby bottle tooth decay is one of the most common. This is caused when a baby is placed in bed with a bottle containing sweet drinks such as juice or milk. When the liquid collects in the mouth, it forms a condition where bacteria multiply, and if left unchecked, cavities will be created.
To avoid baby bottle tooth decay, do not give your baby sugar-containing drinks, particularly before bedtime. Never let your baby sleep with a milk or juice bottle; do not allow your little one to sip flavored water or sweet drinks. The healthiest beverage for your baby's teeth is plain water or mother's milk.
Many parents don’t realize that the first dental visit should occur within six months of the first tooth's eruption—usually by the baby’s first birthday. This early visit is an essential step in identifying any potential issues early on, and your pediatric dentist can provide guidance on the best ways to care for your baby’s teeth.
The dentist will conduct a proper examination at a dental clinic Kalispell, ensuring no sign of decay or any other dental issues. They will also advise you on oral hygiene and respond to any questions. Building a relationship with a pediatric dentist early on will also make your baby more relaxed about future visits to the dentist.