Did you know that your baby should actually see the dentist within six months after the appearance of his or her first tooth? Unfortunately, some parents do not take their children to the “tooth doctor” until much later in school, not because they do not care about the child’s oral health but because they simply do not know. Think of it this way – the sooner you start your child on a good dental regimen the better chances he or she will have for beautiful, healthy teeth.
Even prior to starting dental visits, you want to clean your child’s mouth/teeth. Although it would be hard to brush a toothless baby, you can use a clean, damp washcloth or finger brush to wipe off the gums. Of course, the most important thing you can do at home is avoid feeding your baby the wrong foods or drinks. Bottles filled with sugary beverages, high starch foods, cookies, and other similar items are all bad, leading to poor oral health.
Some people live where tap water is not fluoridated. In this case, your child could be given a fluoride supplement by his or her pediatrician. Once the child is at least six, then mouthwashes with fluoride could be used. For older children who have permanent teeth, dental sealants have become very popular. Although there is the upfront fee to have this protective barrier painted onto the teeth, the result is fewer cavities and decay.
Your baby needs healthy teeth from the day they penetrate the gums. In addition to chewing, these teeth will also assist the baby in talking, while also preparing the needed space for the future permanent teeth. While your baby’s teeth are being formed, even under the gums, proper healthcare is crucial. If you have any questions, talk to your dentist and he or she can provide you with guidance on the best time to visit.