One of the most important things you will do as a parent is take care of your child’s teeth. A baby’s first teeth typically start coming in at around six months, and it is crucial to clean them well and protect them from cavities. In this blog post, we will discuss how to properly take care of your newborn’s teeth. We will cover everything from brushing to flossing to dental visits!
1. Clean baby’s teeth with water and a soft bristled toothbrush
Start cleaning your baby’s teeth as soon as they come in. Use water and a soft bristled toothbrush designed for infants. Gently brush all of the surfaces of your baby’s teeth. You can also use a gauze pad or cloth to wipe their teeth clean.
2. Don’t put your baby to bed with a bottle
Putting your baby to bed with a bottle can cause tooth decay. If you must give your baby a bottle before bed, fill it with water instead of milk or juice. This will help prevent cavities.
3. Apply fluoride toothpaste to the toothbrush.
Only use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste on the toothbrush. Too much fluoride can cause fluorosis, which is when white spots or streaks appear on the teeth. Gently brush your baby’s teeth in a circular pattern. Be sure to brush the front, top, and back of each tooth. Use a clean section of the toothbrush for each quadrant of the mouth. Spit out the toothpaste after brushing. Do not let your baby eat or drink anything for 30 minutes after brushing with fluoride toothpaste.
4. Floss once a day using floss threaders or an infant flosser
Start flossing your baby’s teeth as soon as they touch the dental surface. Use dental floss to clean between your baby’s teeth once they start touching. Gently insert the dental floss between two teeth and move it up and down in a sawing motion. Curl the floss around each tooth in a C shape and slide it under the gum line.
5. Avoid giving your baby sugary drinks and snacks
Sugary drinks and snacks can cause cavities in your baby’s teeth. It’s best to avoid giving them these altogether. If you do give them sugary snacks, make sure to brush their teeth afterwards.
6. Massage their gums gently with your finger to help them teethe
Use a clean, wet washcloth or gauze pad to massage your baby’s gums. This can help ease discomfort and can also help remove bacteria that could cause cavities. You can also give your baby a teething ring to chew on. Just be sure to supervise them so they don’t choke on it.
7. Take your child to the dentist regularly
Regular dental visits are important for keeping your child’s teeth healthy. During these appointments, the pediatric dentist in Panchkula will check for any problems and offer ways to prevent them. They may also apply fluoride treatments, which can help protect your child’s teeth from cavities.
Following these tips will help you properly take care of your newborn’s teeth and ensure they have a healthy smile for years to come!