As a new parent, you want to do everything you can to keep your baby’s gums healthy and ready for the teeth that will grow in later. You also want to find the best pediatric dentist to take care of their teeth and start them off with fond early memories of dental visits, so they continue to go as an adult. Learn more about how to take care of your baby’s dental health until they’re old enough to go to the dentist.

Early Stages of Oral Care

Proper Gum Care

Even without teeth, bacteria can still gather in your baby’s mouth. To prevent this buildup, you should gently wipe their gums with a soft, damp washcloth after feeding and before bed. Get into the crevices between the gums and cheeks as well as underneath the tongue. You don’t want to press too hard or use any kind of rough material, like a brush or sponge, because this will irritate the baby’s sensitive gums.

Teething

When teeth start to come through, your baby will probably experience some discomfort. Help them through this difficult period by using the following treatments:

• Teething Rings & Toys: Chewing can help relieve some of the pressure of new teeth. If you stick the toy in the freezer for 5-10 minutes, the coldness will provide some additional relief. Don’t let it freeze completely though since it still needs to be chewable.
• Nursing: If you’re breastfeeding, some babies feel relief from teething while nursing. It doesn’t work for all babies, but it’s worth trying.
• Dentist-Approved Pain Relief: If you want to try numbing gels, analgesics, or other medicinal pain relief options, you should talk to your pediatric dentist first. They will help you determine the best choice for your baby and make sure you use the medicine safely.

Child’s First Brush

After they’ve gotten a few of their teeth, you can start a brushing routine. Use an extra soft brush designed for infants and keep it somewhere out of reach when you’re done brushing their teeth. Since your baby may accidentally swallow the toothpaste, only use a small amount that won’t upset the stomach. Do this twice daily. The easiest way to remember is to brush their teeth before or after you brush your own teeth.

If your baby has turned one year old, it’s time for their first dental visit. Bring them to Pediatric Dentistry Kahala in Honolulu, where Dr. Allen K. Hirai and his staff will start your baby off right. Dr. Hirai has been working as a pediatric dentist for over 30 years. In that time, he’s developed a reputation for offering top pediatric dental treatments with a patient and compassionate approach to ensure your children will feel safe and comfortable throughout their visit. Call (808) 737-0076 or visit their website to set an appointment.