A baby’s teeth would usually start appearing from the seventh month onwards. Just because the first teeth that appear are impermanent does not mean you can leave them as they are. A baby’s teeth are very important and need to be care for properly. Here are some simple tips that would help you with the same.
Check for Signs
Your baby would probably become more fussy and whiny as and when the first tooth starts appearing. Check for other possible signs like drooling and crying, or change in feeding habits, increased irritability and trouble sleeping.
Chewing Woes
Your baby would develop a strong urge to chew during this period. Give him/her a frozen banana or bagel, or a teething ring to ease his/her discomfort. You can also place a dampened gauze pad over the swollen gums to reduce discomfort.
Cleaning Teeth
Clean your baby’s teeth every day with a clean washcloth. Buy a child size toothbrush when your child becomes 2 years old. Brush his/her teeth at regular intervals throughout the day to incorporate the practice of dental hygiene from a young age onwards.
Tooth Decay
Do not give your baby milk or juice before going to bed at night. Refrain from putting sweetening agents like honey or syrup on the pacifier, as this would cause severe tooth decay even at the age of 18 months. Do not use bread or sugar wrapped in cloth as pacifiers, as they could also lead to an increase of bacteria in your baby’s mouth.
The importance of Fluoride
Fluoride helps protect teeth against decay. So make sure your baby gets the adequate amount of fluoride needed for this to happen. You can apply fluoride in drops, as a gel on the teeth or as toothpaste. Make sure you give your baby fluoridated water as well in order to provide his/her body with adequate fluoride to fight off decay.
Diet
To fight off decay at a young age, opt for nutritious diets for your kids. A well balanced diet low that is low in sugars would do fine in this case. Also, make it a point to make them brush their teeth after every meal.
Other Dental Problems
Gum diseases can affect even babies. If you notice your baby’s gums to be inflamed or bleeding, take him/her to a dentist right away. A mouth injury that causes excessive bleeding would also warrant a visit to the dentist. If your child loses a tooth in the injury, place it in a cup of water and take it along with your child to the dentist.
For further and more professional advice, it’s best to visit a dental expert like this experienced family dentist in Ballwin so they can shed some light on your questions.
Summary
A baby’s impermanent teeth are just as important as his/her permanent teeth. Here are some tips to care for your baby’s teeth, so that you can reduce the chances of his/her permanent teeth being infected later.
