What is the importance of oral health in babies?
For babies, oral health is vital to ensure their overall health. When their teeth erupt, it will be hard for them to eat, speak, or chew. This is why maintaining oral hygiene for infants should begin as soon as they erupt.
What are the signs of oral health problems in babies?
A baby’s oral health can be affected by several factors. Some of the most common are the following:
- Early and prolonged nursing
- Pacifier use
- Thumb sucking
- Bottle-feeding
- Tooth decay
- Bleeding gums
When should my baby get his first dental check-up?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child visit a pediatric dentist by his or her first birthday.
What are the signs that my baby needs to see the dentist?
Babies are very good at hiding their discomfort and pain, so it can be difficult to tell when something is wrong. Some common signs that your baby should see a dentist:
- Yellowing or graying of the teeth
- Any change in texture or appearance of the teeth
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing
- Gums that are red, swollen, bleeding, or pulling away from teeth
- Teeth coming in crooked or crowded
- Teeth that last far longer than normal
- Teeth that are abnormally small
When can my baby start teething?
Teething can start as early as 3-4 months of age. But, the average time for teething to start is 5-7 months.
What oral care products should I use for my baby?
The American Dental Association recommends that you begin cleaning your baby’s gums after the first few days of his or her life. When your child's teeth grow in, brush them gently with an infant toothbrush and water. You'll still need to floss your baby's teeth, but take care not to do it too hard or you could damage your baby's gums.
