Things To Remember When Caring For Your Baby’s Oral Health

Posted July 3, 2018

You can take steps to provide oral care for your baby before their first tooth even arrives. Gently cleaning their gums with a soft, wet washcloth or piece of gauze will protect them against the formation of bacteria. When your baby’s teeth start to arrive, you will take a careful, caring approach to protecting them against cavities. Once that first tooth arrives, you can schedule their first appointment with your Dallas, TX pediatric dentist. Starting care at this stage provides your baby with great oral health support, and gives you information about their development, as well as how to continue caring for their smile. 

Caring For Your Child’s Gums Before Their Teeth Start To Arrive

Protecting your baby’s gums will help to prevent infections, as bacteria can gather on their periodontal tissues. There will be no need for a toothbrush or toothpaste at this point – using a soft washcloth or gauze will be enough. The gentle swabbing of your baby’s gums should take place twice a day.

Taking Great Care Of Your Baby’s Teeth

When those first baby teeth start to arrive, you can start providing oral care with a toothbrush, and toothpaste. Make sure you use a brush with soft bristles, and a small head. You should avoid using a toothpaste that contains fluoride until they are older. The amount of toothpaste needed is limited – keep the amount about the same size as a grain of rice.

Your Dentist Can Help You Monitor Your Baby’s Dental Health

During their first visits, your dentist’s focus will be on checking on your baby’s development, and making sure they feel comfortable at the office. During an infant exam, your dentist can also take time to talk to you about proper care at home. As your child ages, they will move from knee-to-lap exams onto visits that are more in line with traditional oral care. If a problem is identified, your dentist can talk to you about providing effective restorative dental treatment to eliminate a threat like tooth decay.

Talk To Pediatric Dental Care At Casa Linda About Scheduling Dental Care For Your Infant

At Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda, Dr. Karina Marr can provide great care for your child. Our practice is ready to help infants whose teeth are just starting to erupt, and we can continue to provide terrific support as kids grow up. To arrange a visit, contact our office at 214-321-4880. We proudly welcome patients from Dallas, TX, and all surrounding communities, including Casa Linda, Lakewood, Lake Highlands, Forest Hills, East Dallas, Mesquite, Garland, Richardson, and more.