It is important to take care of your baby’s teeth before they erupt through the gums and well before their first visit to a dentist. By gently rubbing your baby’s gums with a soft washcloth after feedings, you can remove any plaque that formed in the mouth and help ensure that their new teeth are healthy when they erupt. With the arrival of your baby’s first teeth, be sure to brush with a soft toothbrush after every feeding. Use a small amount of a toothpaste that is specially formulated for babies. You should not use fluoride toothpaste until your child is old enough to spit the toothpaste out of their mouth after brushing.
When your child is about 2-years-old, you can begin using a fluoride toothpaste. Always supervise your children as they brush their teeth until you are sure that they have learned to brush properly. It is recommended that children brush for at least two minutes at a time, at least two times every day. They should always brush before they go to bed at night. To encourage children to brush their teeth, use a toothpaste and toothbrush designed for children. A fun-flavored toothpaste and a toothbrush with their favorite character can make brushing their teeth less of a chore.
As your child gets older and begins losing their baby teeth, it is important to use a fluoride toothpaste. Permanent teeth should be brushed thoroughly to prevent decay. Use a toothbrush designed for older children that will clean the permanent molars while being sensitive enough that your child can brush their gums where teeth are missing. Consult your Dentist in Oceanville if you need help selecting a toothbrush for your school-aged child. If one of your child’s permanent teeth are chipped or lost, contact an Emergency Dentist immediately.
While some pediatric dentists will see babies as soon as their first tooth erupts, others prefer to wait until after the child’s first birthday. If you suspect your baby’s teeth are not coming in properly, your pediatrician may refer you to a dental specialist. After the first visit, your child should see the Dentist in Oceanville once every six months to ensure they maintain good oral health. By seeing the dentist regularly starting at a young age, your child may be less likely to be nervous if they need a dental procedure.
