Since babies aren’t born with teeth, many parents wonder how much they should focus on oral care from an early age. Fortunately, by carefully monitoring your child’s oral health and taking a few extra steps at home, you can ward off problems. Here is a little more information about dental care for infants and how your family dentist can help. 

Birth to 6 Months

Before your little one gets teeth, wipe their gums clean with a moist cloth. Consider using a piece of sterile gauze moistened with water to gently wipe down their gums. You should be cleaning their smiles after each feeding. 

Never give your baby a bottle as they drift off to sleep, as they could choke on the fluid and develop habits that could perpetuate decay after their teeth erupt. Your little one should see a dentist as soon as their first tooth breaks through or by the time they turn one, whichever event happens first.  

6 to 12 Months 

After your little one develops teeth, start laying the groundwork for proper brushing. Consider switching to a toddler toothbrush and brushing your child’s teeth with simple water. If your local water supply is not fluoridated, speak with your dentist about supplements. Dentists can prescribe fluoride drops that can be placed in your child’s bottle, along with their formula, or given by parents on a daily basis. 

You should always monitor your child’s smile for any new issues, such as new teeth breaking through, gum damage, or other concerns that could impact their oral health. 

Whether you have an infant and are concerned about dental care or your entire family needs checkups, the family dentist at Blome Family Dentistry can help. With a focus on helping families with everything from wellness checks and extractions to dental emergencies and root canals, this trusted Lincoln, NE, family dentist can help with orthodontics and teeth whitening for adults. Find out more about his services by visiting his website or call his office at (402) 483-7000.