Many parents believe that the best time to establish good dental hygiene habits is right when their child’s first tooth appears. In actuality, the best time to start taking care of your child’s teeth is the moment that your child is born. Because even without teeth, bacteria can and will build up. And as more teeth come in, and fall out to make room for permanent ones, the dental hygiene routine will change. Here is a quick rundown of ways to care for your tiny human’s teeth from birth to the first dental visit:
After each feeding, wipe your baby’s gums with a soft damp cloth to remove excess milk and bacteria. Once your child’s teeth develop and break through the gums, it’s time to start brushing twice a day. Very similar to the way we brush our teeth but use a soft children’s toothbrush and baby toothpaste until they reach preschool-age, when the amount of toothpaste increases to the size of a pea. Little humans have a tendency to swallow the toothpaste, instead of spitting it out.
As they begin to eat, realize that they are going to love anything with sugar, so try to keep their favorites to something special. And since good habits start at home, start teaching your family good dental hygiene habits.
When it comes to baby’s first dental visit, parents should take their children as soon as their first tooth pops out, but no longer than the child’s first birthday. Doing this makes it easier for the dentist to look for any early signs and symptoms of problems with the child’s teeth and teach you important information about your child’s diet, the use of the right bottles, brushing, etc.
Schedule your appointment today. Call Dr. Doumit in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-232-8000 or visit www.urbandentalcentre.com.
Dr. Katia Doumit proudly serves Ottawa and all surrounding areas.