Taking Care of Baby Teeth – Tips from your Dentist
Your baby’s first tooth will usually come through between the ages of 4-8 months, and with it may come signs of teething. Sore gums, excessive dribbling and a temperature may accompany new teeth, which can make your child irritable.
The incisors, which are used for cutting food, are generally the first teeth to break through. As soon as these teeth are present in the mouth you’ll need to begin a dental routine to protect your child’s teeth. Baby teeth serve your child until around the age of six, when they will begin to fall out and be replaced by adult teeth.
Dental Routine for Babies
As experienced dentists in Petersfield, my husband Rupert and I (Alannah) are supported by an excellent team of hygienists and nurses who help keep your child’s teeth in tiptop condition. But we cannot do it alone: establishing a routine at home is important.
Brushing a baby’s teeth needs a small toothbrush designed for their mouth and a gentle hand. You only need a smear of fluoride toothpaste. Initially, the amount of time you brush may be just seconds twice a day, but aim to gradually increase this as your child becomes more familiar with the brushing sensation.
Dental Routine for Older Children
Three- to six-year-olds will need a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and a child’s toothbrush. At this age, it is still important to brush your child’s teeth for them to ensure that every tooth is cleaned properly. Teeth should be brushed in small circles and toothpaste spit out afterwards. Rupert and I advise against rinsing the mouth afterwards as this will wash away some of the protective fluoride.
Dentistry for Children
All treatment for children is free at our dentist’s in Petersfield until your child reaches the age of 18.
Our friendly practice staff will be pleased to welcome you and the rest of your family for any treatments they may need. You should start bringing your baby as soon as their first tooth erupts to familiarise them with the dental practice and so we can treat any dental problems as they arise.
Tooth Decay
The main concern with children’s teeth is tooth decay. Children are often fans of fruit juices and sugary sweets, despite our best efforts as parents to sway them towards healthier treats. The bacteria that sugary foods produce contribute towards cavities and this process can be sped up if tooth brushing is not completed at least twice a day. For younger children, giving drinks in a bottle designed for baby milk can cause damage because they bathe the teeth in sugar for a prolonged period of time.
The Dental Approach to Preventing Tooth Decay
As with all dentists in Petersfield, my husband Rupert and I regularly treat children experiencing tooth decay. As well as giving advice to our young patients and their guardians, we have a number of preventative measures we can use to stem tooth decay. These include adding a fluoride varnish to the damaged tooth, filling it, or (in some cases) removing the tooth entirely.
If you or a family member are currently looking for a child-friendly dentist in Petersfield, please give our friendly team a call on 01730 266 350. We look forward to hearing from you.
