As we all know having a healthy baby is a daily job! It actually starts long before that Bundle of Joy is placed in your arms! Pregnancy is a critical period in the development of a healthy baby and so prenatal care and taking good care of yourself are very important. Once that little bundle is here, it is now your job to parent! Wow, what a huge responsibility; one that includes countless tasks, including caring for the newborn’s baby gums and teeth. But they are only baby teeth and will start falling out by the time they start school, right? Wrong; baby teeth play an important role in the development of speech, eating, holding appropriate space for the adult teeth and then most importantly, that goofy little smile that lightens even the most frazzled days! What is cuter that those first two bottom teeth and the sparkle they add to that little giggle!
Ok, down to business: when do I start brushing my baby’s teeth? NOW! Even though there are no teeth, the mouth can harbor bacteria, so most pediatricians will tell new moms to use a soft cloth or gauze around their finger to gently cleanse the gums twice a day. Sounds crazy? Well I can tell you that should you ever have the need for a NICU (neonatal intensive care unit), the nurses do this as part of their routine and loving care. As any parent knows, children are very observant and delight in copying mom or dad in all they do! By the time those first teeth come in, help the baby to brush his little pearls when you do. They love to do what you do! There is no need for tooth paste, but if he/she insists, use non-fluoride and only a tiny amount! Until about age 3 to 5 (average) you will need to help with brushing ALL those little teeth, but allow them to do as much as they can with fun prompts and encouragement.
How to pick a tooth brush:
- Soft brush
- Small head (for that small mouth)
- Large handle (easier for baby to manage)
Most pediatricians encourage the first dental visit at about one year. It is important to introduce the children’s dentist to the child in a positive way. Smile Reef’s kids dental offices in Las Vegas can be very helpful for an array of possible concerns. Come on in for a little meet-n-greet that can include education on:
- Baby teeth care
- Teething
- Fluoride
- Thumb sucking
Some babies take a bottle or a sippy cup to get to sleep until two or even three years old; it is important to understand that putting anything except water in that bottle is not a good choice. Some pediatricians are OK with breast milk or formula in a bottle for the very young, under 12 months. Milk and juices have sugars that will aid in the development of cavities! The saddest face to look at is a wee one with a tooth ache!
The development of good habits is the start of a happy and healthy smile! As any parent knows, coming up with silly games to take advantage of each teaching moment is at times a challenge. With dental care, Smile Reef can help you with some fun ways to keep that smile a happy one!
