Articles
Taking care of your baby's teeth
3/6/2009
Dental Care in Babies
Dr. Suhasini S Kothari
BDS, MDS (Paedodontia), FDSRCS(UK)
Specialist Child Dentist, Multispecialty Dental Care at Dr. Sunny Medical Centre, Shahba, Sharjah
Taking care of babies sprouting teeth? Why so early? Those teeth will get replaced by permanent teeth anyway!!
This is what most parents think. Parents need to realize the importance of taking proper care of the first teeth of babies. Here are a few doubts which any parent will have,
When should I take my baby to the dentist for the first time?
It is advisable that you discuss this with your dentist first, but your baby could accompany you on your routine check-up, as this can help the baby to become familiar with the practice. The baby’s own check-ups can start at about 6 months.
When will my baby’s teeth appear?
The baby will start teething at about 6 months and will continue until all 20 milk teeth are present at about two and a half years. Second teeth usually develop between 6 and 14 years.
Is teething painful?
Most children do suffer teething pains to some extent. Gels may be applied by the finger, gently massaging baby’s gums, although this can be difficult due to the amount of the saliva in the baby’s mouth caused through teething. Certain teething rings can be cooled in the fridge and given to bite, which may help to some extent, but as teething pains can vary it is best to check with your dentist.
Can thumb sucking or dummy sucking affect baby’s health?
If it happens continuously over a number of years, the tooth alignment can be affected and corrective techniques such as orthodontics, may be required when the baby is older.
What about baby’s diet?
If breastfeeding, try to keep the baby to routine feeds. If not, ensure that any foods and drinks, which contain sugars, are kept in feeds only. Don’t dip baby’s dummy or teething ring into fruit syrup or fruit juices of give anything containing sugars before bedtime. These can expose baby’s teeth for long period to sugars when harmful bacteria can attack the newly formed teeth and cause decay.
When should I start cleaning my baby’s teeth?
Babies are obviously not able to clean their own teeth, and will be unable to effectively clean them until about the age of 6 years. Until this time they will need help. Cleaning the teeth should commence when baby first starts teething. Please remember that as so much time will be taking up looking after the baby, you should also look after your own teeth. Development of this second set of teeth could vary. For any differences please consult your dentist on his/her expert advice.
How do I clean my baby’s teeth?
At first, position yourself behind baby and rest their head with one hand. Use a small soft nylon bristle toothbrush with a small amount of toothpaste, and gently massage around the teeth and gums. As the child grows older it may be difficult to use this technique but gradually more responsibility for cleaning teeth can be given to the child. Until she can do it herself, it is important that you clean her teeth thoroughly at least once a day.
What if my baby damage s the tooth?
In the event of any damage to the teeth, contact your dentist immediately.
How can I ensure healthy teeth?
1. Avoid constant snacking – try to keep items containing sugars and starches to mealtime only.
2. Ensure that teeth and gums are thoroughly cleaned at least once a day. Remember, each tooth has 5 surfaces, which needs cleaning.
3. Use a fluoride toothpaste as fluoride helps strengthen and protect the teeth against decay.
4. Visit your dentist regularly.
| | 3/6/2009
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