Have you recently had a baby or are expecting? Wondering what exactly you should be doing to take care of your child’s teeth once your baby is born? At Big Smiles Pediatric Dentistry we believe education is an essential part of providing the best pediatric dental care in Milford, CT. Today we’re discussing what you should be doing to take care of your baby’s smile once they have been born! We hope that you learn something new and that parenthood is everything you’ve dreamed of!
While we don’t literally mean start brushing with a toothbrush, you should be using a damp, soft washcloth to gently massage your baby’s gums. Massaging your baby’s gums can help to reduce bacteria in the mouth, promote blood flow and get them used to at-home dental care routines. Once your child’s first tooth has erupted, you should switch to a soft-bristled baby toothbrush.
Did you know that each time your baby’s mouth is exposed to milk bacteria begins to produce acid in the mouth? Bacteria and acid in the mouth can lead to tooth decay, cavities and other complications such as periodontal gum disease later in life. You should always “brush” your baby’s smile before putting them down for bed.
Want to avoid orthodontic treatment later in life? A good place to start is by skipping pacifiers altogether. Sucking on pacifiers or even thumbs can actually result in gapped, shifted and misaligned teeth, making the smile harder to properly clean, increasing the patient’s risk of tooth decay, cavities, infections and more!
Along with at-home dental care, it is essential to bring your child in for routine, professional dental care. We recommend at least two visits per year.
Ready to schedule your little one’s appointment with our pediatric dentist in 06460? Contact Big Smiles Pediatric Dentistry today, our pediatric dentist near you is always happy to see new smiles and can get your child on our schedule for an appointment today.