GLAD Specialized Family Dentistry

It is very important to care for your baby's teeth and oral health from birth. Their teeth are the placeholders for their permanent teeth to come in later on, and they also help your baby to speak and eat. To help prevent or reduce tooth decay, it is essential to begin practicing healthy habits at an early stage. From birth to age six months of age, wrap a damp washcloth around your finger and gently massage the gum tissues. This will help create healthy gums and teeth as they begin to appear. Always remember to never put your baby to bed with a bottle of milk or juice, as this could lead to decay of their teeth. Your baby will most likely get his/her first tooth between the ages of six to eight months. It is essential to care for his/her teeth immediately, and practicing healthy habits can help prevent tooth decay or poor oral hygiene. Remember to continue to clean your infant's gums with a damp cloth after a feeding. After the first tooth has arrived, begin to use a child's soft toothbrush and softly massage their teeth and gums. Most dentist recommend scheduling your child's first dental appointment before his/her first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears. Remember, begin a pattern of preventative care for your baby's teeth, rather than restorative care later on. :)