Caring for your baby’s first set of teeth

small kid patient visiting specialist in dental clinicOne exciting part of parenthood is that moment you see your child’s first teeth coming through the gums. These first teeth often arrive before the child’s first birthday and are present on the bottom dental arch. Even though your child will lose these teeth later on, that doesn’t mean that they should not be well cared for by the parents. At Gentle Family Dentistry and Implant Center, our team of providers will often recommend that parents educate themselves on the ways to keep these teeth clean and safe from decay and disease before the permanent teeth erupt.

How do I care for my baby’s first teeth?

The baby teeth are the first set of teeth that your child will have. While they are not permanent, they should be treated as such as reduce the risk of various problems that might occur otherwise. Parents are welcome to ask the dentists at Gentle Family Dentistry and Implant Center of Allentown and Bethlehem, PA about the steps needed to protect these teeth. Below are a few recommendations from our dental team regarding a child’s first teeth:

  • Keep the gums clean. After meals, including formula and breastmilk, take a warm, wet cloth and rub the gums gently to remove any potential bacteria that can contribute to disease.
  • Do not send your baby to bed with a bottle. This is known as bottle caries. The child may drink the bottle of milk or juice and it sits on the gums as they sleep, contributing to the risk of decay and disease. If you must send your child to bed with a bottle, keep it a water bottle.
  • Start to teach your child brushing early on. Educate children not to swallow the toothpaste, and expect independent brushing by the age of seven.
  • Visit the dentist regularly. Both children and adults should see the dentist at least every six months for an examination and cleaning.

Learn more about caring for your baby’s smile

Your child’s first set of teeth are special and should be cared for properly for a healthy adult smile. If you are interested in learning more about caring for your child’s teeth, now is a great time to speak to the team at Gentle Family Dentistry and Implant Center about the steps you can take. Our practice has several office locations in the areas of Bethlehem and Allentown, PA and accepts new patients and families on a mission for healthier, more beautiful smiles!

Posted in: Pediatry Dentistry

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