A Parent’s Guide to Dental Care Milestones

So, you’ve just found the time to take a rest from supervising your new bundle of joy and poke around the internet to answer your burning questions. If you’ve made your way here, then you’re probably wondering about dental care for your young one as they age.

The good news is that it’s never too early to start. If you’re curious as to how to begin your child’s oral health routine and continue it going forward, continue reading.

Curing Baby Breath

From the time your child is brought home, you can begin getting into the habit of caring for their gums. But don’t reach for a toothbrush just yet.

Instead, use a soft, damp cloth and gently wipe down your baby’s gums after feeding. This will get them used to having their mouths cleaned and will prevent the buildup of bacteria in their mouths.

Brushing Their First Teeth

When the first baby teeth start to emerge, you can begin using a toothbrush twice a day. Some dentists may suggest waiting until a row of at least four teeth has emerged before brushing. Others may recommend holding off until your child is two or three.

This decision comes down to your preference and comfort level. Either way, you’ll want to begin with a toothbrush that has a large handle and soft bristles. You may even want to soak it in warm water first.

If you decide to start brushing early, don’t use toothpaste. The use of fluoridated toothpaste isn’t recommended until the age of two. Until then, you can use a finger brush or warm water to remove meals from your child’s teeth.

Caring For Teeth Beyond the Age of Three

After three years of age, your child should be comfortable with an oral care routine and can begin to do it themselves with supervision.

Have them use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste for each cleaning. Be sure to tell them not to swallow it. Too much toothpaste consumption can oversaturate their system with fluoride and lead to permanent tooth discoloration.

At six years old, you can begin introducing mouth rinse into their oral care routine. Be sure to ask your dentist what type they recommend before buying as some rinses aren’t great for kids.

Following this guide, you can put together your own plan for your child’s dental future. Cleaning your child’s teeth will prevent cavities, gum disease, and all kinds of other oral health problems down the road. While it may seem overwhelming, try to concentrate on the here and now. You’ll have plenty of time to help them along. For now, just watch them smile.

About the Practice

Arlington Heights Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry is dedicated to providing top-tier dental and orthodontic care for children and adolescents. Their experienced team of pediatric dentists is committed to creating a comfortable and welcoming environment to ensure your child’s experience is positive. They pride themselves in fostering healthy and confident smiles from an early age. To schedule an appointment, call (847) 255-3020 or visit the website to explore their services.