As anyone with a baby, or preparing for a baby knows, there is a lot you need to consider in terms of child care. Not only do you have to make sure that the baby is eating right, you have to take care of their hygiene. One of the most important things to consider is your baby’s dental hygiene. This is a commonly overlooked aspect. Many parents are not fully aware of how to care for their baby’s teeth. If you have any problems giving your baby the oral hygiene he/she needs, or if you are not sure how to care for their teeth, be sure to visit a dentist as soon as possible. Here are some brushing tips to get you started.
Brushing Your Baby’s Teeth
It is commonly assumed that the oral hygiene of a baby needs to be taken care of once they develop teeth, however this is not the case. Dental care for your children starts before they have teeth. The purpose of brushing a baby’s teeth is to eliminate the bacteria that build up in the mouth. Unfortunately, most people do not realize that the bacteria can also accumulate on the gums! If the bacteria are left to accumulate on the gums, it could damage the teeth during the teething process.
This is why most family dentistry specialists recommend wiping a baby’s gums. This should be done twice daily. The gums should also be wiped after each meal, just like you should be brushing your teeth after each meal. In addition, make it a point to wipe your baby’s gums before bedtime.
Wiping a baby’s gums is quite easy. You will need a soft cloth for the job. Simply moisten the cloth and wipe the baby’s gums properly. However, brushing a baby’s teeth is the difficult job. Most babies do not let anyone brush their teeth, but you need to be persistent. It is the only way to make sure their teeth are clean and healthy.
If your baby does not let you brush their teeth, you can try encouraging them by brushing with them. Babies love mimicking their parents, and this will help you clean their teeth efficiently.
Regular Dental Checkups
The American Dental Association has highlighted the importance of family dentistry and recommends a checkup as soon as your baby has their first tooth. Also, their dental checkups should begin before they turn one. If you are looking for a top family dentist in Stuart, Dr. Rita Medwid is one of the best.