Some parents are overly casual about their child’s oral hygiene. They reason that they can wait to get serious about it until the permanent teeth start erupting. That is a mistake! The truth is that you should be diligent about your child’s oral hygiene from infancy. This blog post provides guidance on how to keep your child’s mouth clean from their earliest days.
Before the First Teeth Emerge
You should not wait for teeth to appear before you start caring for your baby’s mouth. After each feeding, gently wipe your infant’s gums with a clean, damp washcloth or soft gauze. Some companies even sell pre-moistened baby gum wipes specifically for this purpose. Keeping up with this simple habit can reduce the risk of oral infections and help your child get used to regular oral care.
Caring for Baby Teeth
Once the first tooth appears, it is time to introduce brushing. Use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice, for children younger than. Brush twice a day, especially before bedtime, and angle the bristles gently along the gumline where plaque often collects.
Flossing should begin when any two teeth touch. Use gentle motions so you do not accidentally hurt your child’s gums, and aim to floss their teeth at least once a day.
Important note: You should schedule your infant’s first dental appointment by their first birthday or around the time their first tooth appears, whichever comes first. During this initial visit, your pediatric dentistry team can provide personalized guidance on how to care for your child’s teeth at home. Bring a list of questions with you, and do not hesitate to voice any concerns. This proactive approach can go a long way toward preventing or minimizing dental problems down the road!
When to Let Your Child Brush and Floss on Their Own
Many children are eager to brush on their own before they have the coordination to do a thorough job. You can encourage independence while still protecting their teeth by letting your child brush first, then taking a turn yourself. Most children need help or close supervision until they have the dexterity and fine motor control to be thorough during oral hygiene. If they can tie their shoes on their own, that is often an indicator that they are ready for more independence when they brush their teeth.
It might take longer before your child is able to floss effectively on their own. Small fingers often struggle to guide floss safely between tight baby teeth, and children may snap floss into the gums if they rush. Floss picks and water flossers can be useful for some families, but your child will still need coaching on proper technique.
Without question, it takes time and effort to establish a strong foundation for your child’s lifetime oral hygiene habits. Be consistent, be patient, and do not hesitate to take advice from your local pediatric dentist. Your efforts could reward your child with a healthy, pain-free smile that stands the test of time!
Meet the Practice
Drs. Sedighi and Martin are the highly skilled pediatric dentists in our Chesterfield, MO, practice. Our team is passionate about preventive care, and we are pleased to offer in-depth oral hygiene education for parents and their children. To learn more or to request an appointment for your young one, contact our office at 636-777-7777.