Taking care of your baby’s teeth

Experts agree that good dental hygiene should begin the moment your baby starts teething. A healthy set of milk teeth not only helps your child chew comfortably but also goes a long way in saving you thousands in dentist bills later on in life when their big teeth come around. 

Teething troubles

Generally, teeth start appearing between four months and seven months of age, but every baby is different. The first teeth to appear are usually the two bottom front teeth. Some babies are also born with teeth. Named natal teeth, they occur in approximately one in every 2 000 to 3 000 births. These teeth normally develop on the lower gum, are attached with soft tissue, and do not have strong roots.

Making babies uncomfortable

Parents tend to think that teething causes fever, but it doesn’t. It can, however, make your baby fussy and uncomfortable. This can be relieved by offering a cold teething ring or a cold washcloth to chew or suck on, as well as rubbing the gum with a clean finger. No matter how tempted you may be, never soothe your child using aspirin as this medication can cause serious illness (or even death) in children under 18 years of age.

Caring for baby’s gums

Parents should start caring for their baby’s gums right away. At first, the care will not involve a toothbrush and toothpaste. Instead, use a soft, moistened washcloth or piece of gauze to gently wipe your baby’s gums at least twice a day – especially after feedings and before bedtime. This process will wash off bacteria and prevent any micro-organisms from clinging to your baby’s gums. Bacteria can leave behind a sticky plaque that damages infant teeth as they erupt, and cause cavities later on.

Brushing first teeth

When your first baby’s teeth start to appear, a soft toothbrush with a small head and large handle should be used. At first, just wet the toothbrush. At around the age of one year, parents can begin using a pea-sized amount of non-fluoridated toothpaste. Wait to introduce fluoride toothpaste until your baby is at least two years old. Brush gently all around your baby’s teeth – front and back. Parents need to stay vigilant for any signs of baby tooth decay (look out for brown or white spots or pits on the teeth). Even if there are no visible problems, babies should attend their first dentist visit by the age of a year.