Your baby’s teeth are not going to be around for a long time, but you should start taking care of your baby’s oral health already. The health of those tiny teeth will determine the health of your infant’s gums. They will also make way for the permanent teeth that will eventually replace them.
To make sure your baby has good oral health, follow this advice. Your pediatric dentist in Murray will agree with this advice and offer more tips on caring for your little one’s teeth.
Don’t Wait for the Teeth to Show
That is, don’t wait for the teeth to show before you start taking care of your child’s oral health. As your child is incapable of cleaning their own mouth, it’s your responsibility to do it for them. Have clean washcloths or gauze at the ready.
After feeding your baby, dampen the cloth or gauze with clean, lukewarm water and use it to wipe your baby’s gums clean gently.
Help Your Baby Through the Teething Phase
Learn when your baby starts teething. This usually begins when they’ve reached their fourth month and will probably continue until their second birthday. A teething baby typically tries to chew on anything. They might also try to tug at their ears, as the nerves in the ear are connected to the nerves in the mouth.
They will enjoy a chilled teething ring, a clean washcloth soaked in cool water, or even a semi-frozen banana if you’ve already introduced solids to your baby. If the baby has a fever or shows signs of pain, see your pediatric dentist or your pediatrician.
Take Your Child to the Dentist
Of course, it seems strange to be taking your child to the dentist this early, but no other professional can keep your baby’s dental health in check, so it’s good to take them to your dentist early. Pediatric dentists specialize in kids’ oral health, so it’s an excellent choice to take your child to one.
Not only do you keep your child’s mouth healthy, but you also make it easier for your child to understand and value dental visits as they grow up.
Practice Brushing Your Baby’s Teeth
Talk to your dentist about the kind of toothbrush you should use to clean your baby’s teeth. You don’t have to wait for all the teeth to sprout; you can start this healthy practice as soon as the first ones appear, and your child doesn’t show signs of discomfort with brushing.
It’s often easier to make a baby like brushing if the toothpaste is flavored. It’s important to take care of baby teeth, as their health will help determine the alignment and health of the permanent teeth that will replace them.
Keep a Meal Limit
It’s wise to keep your little one away from sugary food and drinks, but even if you always give them healthy food, if you do it too often, that can damage their teeth. A diet plan of five meals a day for a child is a good plan. That includes the three main meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), and two snacks.
Your child’s oral health is very important for their overall wellbeing and normal, happy growth. Take the advice above, and your little one will enjoy healthy teeth and gums.