Kids Dental Care

Baby Teeth Are No Child's Play

Did you know your baby's teeth play a very important role in their growth? They are responsible for reserving space for permanent teeth and making sure the jaw development is proper.

But how do you make sure that your child's baby teeth are doing their job? Children's teeth are different from adult teeth so they need special attention. A dentist who specializes in Kid's dental treatment or a pediatric dentist can help you access the condition of your child's teeth.

Dental hygiene should start from birth, this helps form a habit and will allow your child to have healthy teeth. Let us look into the routine that you should follow at different ages.

From Birth to 6 months of age:

Most people might think since babies don’t have teeth, there is no need for oral care. But having healthy gums is a foundation for healthy teeth. Follow the following routine for your infant.

• Always clean baby's gums after feeding with a wet washcloth.
• Avoid putting the baby to sleep with a bottle or using the bottle as a prop.
• Do not share the utensils such as spoons with your baby as dental cavities can be transmitted from you to your child.
• Babies usually start teething around the age of 4 to 6 months, this can cause swelling of the gums, giving a cold washcloth or teething ring can provide relief.

Age 6 Months to 12 Months:

This is the time frame in which your child will get his first teeth and also a good time to schedule the first visit to a Pediatric dentist. Your dentist might suggest the following routine

• Clean gums with a washcloth and if your child has got his teeth, use a small soft bristol brush to clean the teeth.
• Try switching from a bottle to a cup.
• Avoid giving drinks and food that has high sugar content.
• Check your child's teeth regularly for white or brown spots while brushing, as they are an early sign of a dental cavity.

Age 12 Months to 18 Months ( 1 year to 2 years):

By the age of 12 months, your child should have his/her first dental visit. At this age, children start forming a habit.

• Brush twice a day using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. You can consult your dentist for the type of toothpaste to be used.
• Check for signs of decay regularly.

Age 2 years to 5 years

Your child should get all the primary teeth by the age of 2 years and should be familiar with the routine of brushing.

• Continue to brush twice a day
• Schedule a dental visit every 6 months.
• Teach your child to brush, you can start by allowing your child to brush occasionally under your supervision.
• By the age of 3 most children stop thumb sucking, if your child has the habit, consult with your dentist.
• By the age of 6-7, your child should be able to brush on their own without your help.

Make dental hygiene fun, teach your children about oral health using fun games and activities. To know more about such activities you can visit our social media page or visit our children's dental clinic in Mira Road.