A Parent’s Guide to Infant and Toddler Dental Care

A parent’s responsibility to maintain great overall and dental health for their infant carries a lifetime of commitment and a bundle of accountability. Your children’s dentist provides a wonderful source to stay informed on all you can do to keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy.

Your baby’s teeth actually form while still in the womb. They will begin to erupt around the age of four to six months. Once teeth start to break through the gums, your infant might experience discomfort and cry and/or run a fever, which are symptoms of teething.  A cold teething ring might provide some relief. There are some topical medications that might help as well.

As your baby’s teeth appear, wiping them clean daily with a soft cloth is advised. The baby should never be put down for a nap or for the night with anything in their baby bottle except water. Formula, milk, and juices all contain sugar. If the baby is allowed to go to sleep with these contents in their mouth, the sugary liquid literally lingers on teeth for hours leading to the potential of dental decay.

At one year of age, your child should have their first appointment with the children’s dentist. This first visit consists primarily of an exam to make sure your child’s oral health is on course. This is the perfect opportunity to discuss your kid’s dental health and learn what is needed to protect their teeth and gums.

Appointments should be kept regularly. This will allow your child to become familiar with the activities of the dental office. If your child is taken to the dentist for the first time due to a dental problem, subsequent visits will always be resisted.

As your toddler grows, brushing daily with an age appropriate fluoridated tooth paste is a hands-on daily responsibility. Your child needs to know how to brush, spit, and floss. Allowing your child to watch you is a wonderful teacher.

As your child gains coordination, they will eventually learn to brush and floss on their own; but daily monitoring is usually still needed.

In addition to brushing, flossing, and regular visits to the children’s dentist, a healthy diet is critical limiting sugary snacks and beverages to special occasions. Following these guidelines will promote great dental health that will serve your child well for life. 

If you have further questions, call our team at Fort Worth Children’s Dentistry!