Infant Oral Hygiene Tips From a Family Dentistry Expert
by Mint Dental
As a parent, seeing your little one’s first smile is an unforgettable moment. Those tiny pearly whites can melt your heart instantly. But with great smiles come even greater responsibilities.
Taking care of your baby’s oral health from an early age is crucial for their overall well-being. Mint Dental of Franklin — a trusted name in family dentistry —would like to share some tips to help get you started.
Start early, start right
Believe it or not, dental care begins even before the first tooth emerges. After feeding, gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth or a soft gauze pad to remove bacteria and milk residue.
This practice helps keep their gums clean and also prepares them for the toothbrushing routine ahead.
The first toothbrush
When your baby’s first tooth emerges, it’s time to introduce a toothbrush. Opt for a soft-bristled, age-appropriate one and use a small amount of fluoride-free toothpaste.
Brush their tooth gently twice daily, once in the morning and before bedtime. Mint Dental of Franklin recommends supervising the brushing process until your child can handle it safely and effectively solo.
Sippy cups and avoiding sugary drinks
When transitioning your child to a sippy cup, put water in it only. Prolonged exposure to sugary drinks or milk in a sippy cup can lead to tooth decay, commonly known as “baby bottle tooth decay.”
Encourage your child to drink water and limit juice consumption to occasional treats.
Healthy diet, healthy smile
A balanced diet plays a significant role in your baby’s oral health. Provide a variety of nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Avoid giving them sugary snacks and drinks, as these can increase the risk of cavities and other dental issues.
Schedule their first dental visit
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child’s first dental visit within six months after their first tooth appears or no later than their first birthday. Early dental visits help to identify potential issues and establish a positive relationship with the dentist.
Soothing teething discomfort
Teething can be a challenging time for babies and parents alike. Offer your infant a chilled teething ring or a clean, cold cloth to chew on to ease their discomfort. Avoid using teething gels or ointments with benzocaine, as they may harm an infant.
Leading by example
Children often learn by observing their parents. Make oral hygiene a family affair by brushing and flossing together. Emphasize the importance of good dental habits and make it a fun activity for your little one to look forward to.
Final thoughts
Early oral care lays the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. By starting early and incorporating these infant oral hygiene tips into your daily routine, you set your child on the path to excellent dental health.
Remember, regular dental checkups with a family dentistry expert, like the one at Mint Dental of Franklin, are essential for monitoring your child’s oral development and addressing any concerns.
Take care of those little teeth; your baby will brighten the world with their beautiful smile for many more years!
Or reach us by:
- Calling us at: 508-613-9513
- Emailing us at: smile@LoveMintDental.com
Mint Dental of Franklin welcomes patients in and around Medway, Wrentham, Norfolk, and Franklin, MA!
