Around six months of age, your baby’s teeth will begin to emerge. While you try to soothe your little one’s pain during this difficult time, you also need to take steps to prevent decay. Even before these primary teeth fully grow in, your child is vulnerable to plaque, cavities, and even gum disease. Fortunately, the friendly pediatric dentist from Aina Haina Dental Group in Honolulu, HI, has the tips you need to help your child maintain a bright, healthy smile for life.

At-Home Care

Soon after your baby is born, it’s time to begin caring for his or her oral hygiene. To prevent decay, wipe down the gums with a clean gauze pad or washcloth at least twice a day. As soon as the teeth begin to sprout, you need to start brushing them. Always use a pediatric dentist-approved toothpaste and a child-size toothbrush. As soon as two teeth appear side by side, you need to add flossing to the routine to remove trapped bacteria. By age 3 or 4, your child may be ready to take on these tasks solo, but you should always supervise. Remind your child to never swallow the toothpaste.

First Pediatric Dentist Visit 

When the first tooth emerges, you need to schedule a dentist appointment as soon as possible. If your child still doesn’t have any teeth by 12 months of age, you still need to plan a visit. During the appointment, the dentist will check the growth and development of the teeth and gums, as well as inspect for oral cavities, injuries, and other issues. The hygienist will also conduct a brief teeth cleaning to help curb the growth of harmful bacteria and prevent decay. Feel free to address any questions or concerns you have during this time.

Early pediatric dentist visits help instill healthy dental habits for a lifetime. Whether you child is 3 or 13, schedule an appointment at Honolulu’s top family dentist today. Call a friendly professional from Aina Haina Dental Group at (808) 373-2184, or visit them online to learn more about their services.