Having a baby can be one of the most exciting moments of life. After the child has settled into your home, and their teeth begin to come in, a dental visit may rise to mind. Many people talk about the dental concerns of children, but babies are usually considered exempt from dental care. This is not true. But when should you start your child’s dental visits?
The First Visit
The first dental visit can be an important one. According to the experts at Stanford Medicine, you should bring your child to your family dentists office for the first time either when they turn 12 months old or if their first teeth emerge, whichever comes first. Before that, you should be sure to wipe their gums after feeding them. That takes care of any bacteria and sugars. Be sure to avoid letting them fall asleep with a bottle. That can be the cause of many future problems, including causing them to have problems sleeping when they get older if they don’t have a bottle.
When Baby Teeth Come In
It is important not to let your baby have fluoride until they are older. It is possible to get fluoride varnish on your child’s teeth, and they will not know better not to purposefully ingest it. Talk with your dentist if you have any concerns. When it comes to brushing your child’s teeth, a soft-bristled toothbrush will do the trick. Gently brush your baby’s teeth with just water. That will rid your baby’s mouth of any food particles that linger and can prevent any early dental issues.
What to Do When Pregnant?
When it comes to keeping your baby healthy while you are pregnant, family dentists also agree that you should take good care of your teeth and continue to see a dentist while pregnant. Maintain good oral health by brushing twice a day and flossing. Hormonal fluctuations can cause problems with your teeth and gums that could potentially harm your baby. Being proactive and going to your family dentists office is important during pregnancy.
These are just a few things that you need to know about caring for your baby’s dental health. Taking your child to visit a dentist will improve the chances of their teeth coming in properly as they age. Call Bright Side Dental to schedule your baby’s first appointment today!