Once you hold your tiny infant in your arms, dental care may be the last thing on your mind. You can’t see teeth yet so you can’t imagine that they are a concern. Nothing could be further from the truth. You need to make sure that your baby follows a diet that is recommended by your pediatrician. You also want to ensure that your child’s gums are clean after breastfeeding or drinking from a bottle. All you need to do is dampen a soft cloth or piece of gauze to wipe down the gums after every feeding. When your baby is about six months old, teething will begin. When your child’s teeth first break the surface of the gums, you will want to begin oral habits that will last a lifetime. Get a soft toothbrush and toothpaste that is appropriate for a baby. You’ll only need a dab to do the job, but make sure those new teeth are clean after each feeding.

Lead Your Little One on the Path to Good Oral Health

By the time your toddler is two, it will be time to teach good oral health habits. That means your child is ready to begin brushing after meals. You can demonstrate how to brush your teeth and help your child as well to learn the proper way to brush. Be sure to include nightly brushing as part of your child’s routine before bed.

Don’t Forget Fluoride

Good brushing habits are a step in the right direction, but you can do more by supplementing the amount of fluoride your child gets every day with a fluoride rinse. Your pediatric dentist or pediatrician can prescribe a rinse or recommend a good product that is available in the store. You want to do everything possible to keep your child’s teeth healthy and strong.

Keep Sugar to a Minimum

Don’t overload your little one with sugar. You should limit the amount of sweet drinks your child has in his or her diet. Look for juice that has less sugar. Stick with milk and water as much as possible. When your child does have a sweet drink or treat, encourage brushing as soon as your child is done. Make sure that brushing your child’s teeth is a normal part of his or her routine.

Get Ready for the First Trip to your Houston Pediatric Dentist

Your child should begin regular dental visits as early as a one-year-old. This will begin a lifelong pattern of two visits per year. With regular visits and a good oral health routine at home, you can help your child to avoid problems with his or her teeth. At Bunker Hill Pediatric Dentistry, we want to be your partner in preserving your little one’s teeth so that they will last a lifetime. Call us today to make your child’s first appointment.