The first pearly white has appeared in your baby’s mouth. As your child's teeth are on their way through gums, it's important to start taking care of them since beginning.
Though milk teeth will only be around for some time, maintaining their health is essential for health of your baby’s gums & future permanent teeth. Baby teeth not just play an important role in helping your child chew & bite food; they also help in development of clear speech & jaw bones. A good hygiene practice since beginning is a must.
To make sure best care for new teeth here are some easy tips:-
Care begins even before the teeth appear: Wiping the gums off after each feeding with a clean, warm washcloth or a dampened piece of gauze wrapped around your finger. This can be used for rubbing off left over food/ milk.
Avoid Cavities: Discolorations & pitting are the first signs of cavities in teeth You should never put your baby to sleep with milk/ bottle (or worse juice) in the mouth. Leaving bottle in infants mouth while sleeping is most common cause of front teeth caries.
You can also ask your dentist for pit & fissure sealants or fluoride treatment, both of which act as shield & can reduce chances of cavities & decay.
# Your dentist can guide you exactly how to care for your child's permanent teeth.
Using Toothpaste: Using a small amount of toothpaste (approx. the size of a rice grain) and brushing twice daily is essential. One should use baby toothbrush available in market, as they have softer bristles and wide handles for firmer grip.
# Rinsing after each meal/snacking is a must
Schedule a Dental Exam: The American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that first dental exam at age of one or when the first tooth appears.
Encouraging Dental Health: You can promote oral health by allowing the child eat fruits or salads over candies or cookies. Substituting carbonated drinks with milk/cheese with.
Loose/ Wiggly teeth: After the age of 6 milk teeth start becoming loose. You should allow tooth to fall on its own to minimize pain & discomfort.
As a parent it is essential to take good care, monitor and establish good dental habits in your child right from beginning.