When you visit us for your child’s first dental exam (when their first tooth comes in, or no later than their first birthday), Dr. Rebecca Day will examine your baby’s smile, ensure that your little one’s teeth are developing properly, and provide you with newborn oral care tips to ensure a happy, healthy smile!
In the meantime, here are some newborn oral hygiene tips to help you and your little one adjust to life outside of the womb.
Did you know that your baby can get cavities as soon as their teeth start coming in? It’s important to start practicing good oral hygiene habits early on! Good oral hygiene begins at infancy.
1. Start brushing your baby’s teeth as soon as the first tooth erupts. If there is a tooth present, it can get a cavity!
2. Avoid putting your baby to bed with juice or milk, and brush their teeth after their last bottle of the night. Make sure that your little one’s teeth are clean and healthy to prevent tooth decay.
3. Getting your little one to cooperate during tooth brushing time can be a challenge, but don’t worry, this is totally normal. With patience and persistence, your little one will get used to the routine of brushing. Use a smear amount of fluoride toothpaste twice per day when brushing your baby’s teeth.
4. To prevent long-term growth and developmental issues, don’t allow your little one to use a pacifier after age 3.
5. Water should be their go-to drink in between meals and anytime your baby is thirsty. Juice and milk should only be given during mealtime, if necessary!
6. Breastfeeding is wonderful! “Experts across health care disciplines recognize the importance of breastfeeding during infancy” (American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry).
7. Breastfeeding alone does not cause tooth decay; however, once combined with table foods, ad lib breastfeeding (feeding your baby as desired and not on a fixed schedule) can lead to tooth decay. Try to avoid breastfeeding multiple times per night to avoid decay on anterior teeth (front teeth).
8. Starting dentist visits early can help get your child used to visiting the dentist and ultimately make them more comfortable with dental cleanings and check-ins!
Left side is for patients under 3. Right side is for patients over 3.
Courtesy of the American Dental Association.
Sunny Day Pediatric Dentistry is here to be your trusted dental home! It’s important to establish a trusted relationship with your dentist, so your child receives the comprehensive dental care they deserve.
The AAPD (American Association of Pediatric Dentists) states, “the dental home should be established no later than 12 months of age to help children and their families institute a lifetime of good oral health.”
Please note that kids are not good at spitting until age 3-4 so don’t stress if they do not spit it out. This is a safe amount, even if it is swallowed.
We’ll be here to support you and your child’s oral health needs throughout their entire childhood. We’ll provide preventive care and check-ups, and be readily available for any dental emergencies.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We love hearing from you! If you have questions about any of our pediatric dental services, infant oral care or preventive dental care, we encourage you to give us a call.
Starting with your little one’s very first tooth, our team is here to guide you through the smile milestones and provide expert dental care with a gentle and compassionate approach.
We want every visit to our office to feel like a Sunny Day! If you’re looking for a “kids dentist near me”, we welcome you and your infant with open arms.
