Although baby teeth will not be your child’s permanent teeth, it is still important to take care of them to prevent extensive dental work and health problems. Baby teeth typically do not begin falling out until age six and may linger in your child’s mouth until eight or even later. Learning how to take care of your child’s teeth can help the baby teeth stay strong until it’s time for them to fall out.
Baby Teeth Timeline and Proper Care Methods
Baby teeth are already present in your child’s mouth at birth. The first tooth typically begins to show between the ages of six months and a year. This process can cause pain and may leave your child with tender gums. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can use to soothe your baby’s aching gums. Letting your child chew on something cold, such as a cloth left in the freezer, can help. Teething rings can also alleviate some symptoms. Finally, you can also try rubbing your child’s gums to provide comfort. By age three, your child will probably have had her entire set of twenty teeth emerge from the gums. It is important to see a Eugene Oregon kids dentist. Call us today to schedule an appointment with your child’s next Eugene Dentist.
The Importance of Baby Teeth
Baby teeth serve several vital roles as your child grows up. First, these teeth enable your child to move on from a liquid diet to eventually eat solid foods. Baby teeth also reserve space in your child’s mouth for permanent teeth to grow. If your child loses a baby tooth prematurely, this can make it difficult for the permanent teeth to grow correctly, potentially requiring the use of braces or other dental work when your child is older.
When to Start Dental Visits
Taking your toddler to the dentist is a good way to prevent problems with your their mouth. Plan to see the dentist when your toddler is approximately 3 years old. During the appointment, dentists can check for any issues, such as early tooth decay, and can help you learn how to take care of your child’s teeth.
Guidelines for Taking Care of Baby Teeth
Making a habit of regularly taking care of your baby’s teeth is an ideal way to prevent problems. Regular cleaning, even before the first tooth emerges, is a good way to start. Wiping gums with a clean cloth can help keep your baby’s gums clean.
Once teeth do begin to pop out, you can start brushing them with a toothbrush designed for babies or toddlers. You should only use a smear of toothpaste when brushing your child’s teeth, unless your pediatrician or dentist has given you other directions. For best results, brush your child’s teeth in the morning and the evening each day. As your child grows older, he can begin to brush his teeth under your supervision. Flossing can begin once your child has teeth next to each other.
Your child’s diet can also affect the health of his teeth. Avoid feeding your child sugary drinks and sweets to prevent tooth decay. Once your child is eating solids, feed him plenty of healthy foods, including vegetables.