As a new parent, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out everything. To help limit that overwhelming feeling of being a new parent Smile Reef will go over the milestone timeline of what should be going on and what you should be doing with your child’s mouth as they develop and grow.
Mouth Starts Preparing for Teeth
Your child’s mouth will start preparing for baby teeth as soon as 0 to 4 months. Even though you may not feel like it is necessary, the best thing you can do for your baby’s oral hygiene is to get them into the habit of brushing. Start with a damp cloth or a soft rubber finger brush and wipe down their gums twice a day. Get them used to the feeling of rubbing the gums.
Baby Teeth Come In
You should start noticing baby teeth coming in between 4 and 6 months. This can make your child’s mouth very sensitive. You should continue to wipe down their mouth but keep in mind that because they are getting teeth their mouth is sensitive and you need to be soft. Now that they are getting teeth, wiping down their mouth will help prevent plaque.
Visit Dentist
Once your child starts getting teeth you should contact your dentist and make an appointment. By the time they are 1, they should have already been to the first dental checkup. When you start checkups then you will do them every six months. Also, start introducing a baby toothbrush that has soft bristles and start teaching your child how to spit after brushing.
Start Flossing
You should start having your child floss at about a year. You usually start this when their teeth start touching each other. To help them get in a good habit of this you can do it after each meal. This will help them to have good habits throughout their life.
Baby Should Not have Pacifier Anymore
Pacifiers or even sucking the thumb can be a hard habit to break for these little ones. You need to start breaking them of these habits at least by age 2. If not then it can lead to mouth problems and how their teeth can come in.
Child Can Brush Their Own Teeth
When your child is about 3 to 6 they will start wanting to brush their own teeth. You can let them be a little more independent but make sure you supervise them. Keep a close eye on them to make sure that they are brushing and flossing properly.
Kids Lose Baby Teeth
Between ages 6 and 12, your child will start losing their baby teeth. They most likely will fall out in the order that they came in. Their front teeth are the first to go. By the time your child is 12-13, your child will have all of their grown-ups in.
Braces
Once the adult teeth start coming in your dentist may recommend an orthodontist for your child. For either straightening out your child’s teeth or if any other issues arise while your child is getting their adult teeth. The dentist wants what is best for your child’s teeth and will recommend orthodontist care.
Pediatric Dental Care
If it is time for your child to see a dentist or you have any questions then give Smile Reef a call today.