Infant Dentistry in Woodforest

Even before your child gets their first tooth, it’s important to clean their gums between feedings. You can simply wipe their gums with a clean cloth to remove any remaining milk or formula. Once your child’s first teeth come in, you can switch to using a soft-bristled infant toothbrush to clean their gums along with any erupting teeth.

When your child’s teeth start to come in, they can experience a lot of discomfort. There are a few treatments that can help, such as giving your child a clean, cold wet cloth or a teething ring to chew on. Teething rings allow your child to apply pressure to their gums through chewing, which reduces their discomfort. Chilling a teething ring can also help with pain. Consult with your pediatrician or dentist for further treatments.

Children are usually ready to be weaned off bottles and use cups when they can sit up by themselves. Infants can start trying to use a cup as early as 6 months, though it’s more common to wean children and switch to cups between the ages of 12-18 months. Weaning off bottles and switching to solid foods is essential for your child’s oral health and overall health.

Even if your baby’s first tooth hasn’t come in just yet, you should begin brushing their mouth using a soft-bristled infant toothbrush and water. Once their teeth begin to erupt, you can begin using a small, rice-sized bit of fluoridated toothpaste. Choose a baby toothbrush with a large handle and small tip to provide the gentlest care for your child’s growing smile.

Regular dental appointments are essential for keeping your child’s teeth healthy and strong. Your child should see a dentist every six months as soon as they turn 1 year old, or whenever they get their first tooth. Seeing your pediatric dentist regularly will help you avoid common oral health issues throughout your child’s infancy and as they grow older. It will also give you peace of mind, since you’ll know their budding teeth will remain healthy and strong.