Taking care of a baby’s teeth is essential. However, it is not always strictly followed. In fact, this helps establish a foundation for the baby’s oral health care in the future. If done correctly and seriously from the beginning, the baby will develop good oral care habits. In addition, healthy eating habits will also be formed and developed. Let’s learn more about this issue.
1. Understand the process of teething in babies
This is something you need to do before learning how to take care of a baby’s newly erupted teeth.
We all know that children go through stages of teething for both their baby and permanent teeth. The baby’s baby teeth (20 in total) have been formed since they were in the womb and are “hidden” under the gums.
In general, infants start teething at different times. Most babies will start teething at around 6-10 months old. Some babies may start teething as early as 3 months old. And some others may not have their baby teeth until they are 12 months old. A few babies are born with 1-2 teeth already erupted.
The order of teething varies for each baby. However, the most common is the lower central incisors that come in first. The baby’s entire set of baby teeth usually completes by the time they are 3 years old. After that, the 32 permanent teeth will gradually replace the baby teeth, starting from 6 to 20 years old (for wisdom teeth).
2. Monitor the signs that indicate the baby is teething
To properly care for a baby’s newly erupted teeth, it is important to recognize the signs that indicate the baby is teething.
As mentioned above, although we know the common teething timeline for babies, each baby has a different “schedule.” You can take note of the following signs in your baby:
- Increased crying or irritability.
- Changes in eating patterns.
- Mouthing or chewing on objects such as pacifiers, toys, or bibs.
- Increased bowel movements.
Pulling on the ear on the side where the tooth is erupting.
These signs are likely indicative of teething, but they can also be normal expressions of the baby’s developmental process. Additionally, they are not exclusive to teething and can indicate that the baby’s body is unwell or experiencing some form of infection.
Ideally, when you notice that your baby is unwell, especially when they have a fever or diarrhea, you should take them to a doctor for a more accurate diagnosis.
3. How to care for a baby’s newly erupted teeth
How can you make caring for a baby’s newly erupted teeth more comfortable for them? Let’s take a look at some tips below:
- Gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger (make sure to wash your hands before doing this).
- Give your baby a clean, chilled item to chew on (not frozen). It’s best to use a specialized teething ring, a silicone nipple, or a toothbrush.
- Feed your baby cold, soft foods.
- Give your baby a firm, sugar-free biscuit to suck or chew on.
Teething gels are generally not recommended for babies. They may not provide the desired pain relief and can have harmful side effects.
If you have tried these methods and your baby is still not happy, comfortable, or relieved, it is best to take them to the doctor. At this point, teething may not be the issue your baby is experiencing.
4. Do you need to wait for teeth to erupt before caring for a baby’s teeth?
Caring for a baby’s newly erupted teeth is necessary. However, you can start this before your baby’s first tooth appears.
When your baby is around 3 months old, you can start gently wiping their gums. Use a soft cloth or a clean gauze pad to wipe their gums twice a day. This practice helps prepare your baby for toothbrushing once the teeth start coming in.
As soon as the first tooth erupts, you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for children under 2 years old to brush your baby’s teeth. If your baby doesn’t like the toothbrush, you can continue using a cloth or gauze to wipe their teeth (both front and back surfaces).
You should only use a moist cloth or brush with water to clean your baby’s teeth until they reach 18 months of age (unless your child’s dentist advises otherwise). If you want to use fluoride toothpaste, consult your child’s dentist before applying it.
5. Finding the Best Position for Caring for Your Baby’s Teeth
You may be wondering about the best position for caring for your baby’s teeth when they have just started teething. Here are some tips to consider:
- Position your baby where you can observe their mouth: Place your baby in a position where you can see their mouth clearly, and they feel safe. You can hold your baby sitting on the bed or on the floor, with their head resting on your thigh.
- Lift your baby’s chin for comfortable positioning: Lift your baby’s chin to ensure their head is comfortably positioned, facing you.
- Use your fingers to lift your baby’s lips and gently brush or wipe their teeth and gums in circular, gentle motions.
- Pay attention to both the front and back surfaces of the teeth, as well as the gumline.
6. Making Oral Care a Pleasant Experience
If your baby doesn’t enjoy toothbrushing or teeth wiping, you can make the oral care experience more enjoyable and comfortable by following these suggestions:
- Be very gentle because your baby’s gums (even before teething) are sensitive.
- Sing a fun and catchy song or “compose” lyrics to a tune your baby likes. For example, “Baby has a little tooth so cute,” “Baby has a soft and gentle toothbrush” — this can distract your baby and make brushing more enjoyable.
- Show your baby how you brush your own teeth and make it a playful activity. You can pretend to brush your teeth together, involving the whole family. By the time you brush your baby’s teeth, they will be more accustomed to the routine and more accepting of it.
7. Cleaning and Maintaining Toothbrushes, Cloths, and Preventing Early Tooth Decay
To ensure effective dental care for your teething baby, it’s important to pay attention to the proper cleaning of toothbrushes and cloths. Additionally, taking steps to prevent early tooth decay is crucial:
- Proper cleaning of toothbrushes and cloths: Rinse or wash your baby’s toothbrush/gauze under running water after each use. Store the toothbrush or cloth in a clean and dry area.
- Replace toothbrushes regularly: Replace your baby’s toothbrush every 3-4 months or when the bristles are no longer straight. Cloths or gauze used for teeth wiping should be replaced more frequently.
- Preventing early tooth decay: Brushing alone does not guarantee the prevention of tooth decay. Take proactive measures to prevent this condition by:
- Avoiding giving your baby foods or drinks high in sugar when they go to bed, especially from a bottle or sippy cup. The sugars from these beverages can contribute to tooth decay.
- Limiting sugary snacks and drinks: Minimize your baby’s consumption of sugary snacks, candies, and sugary drinks. Opt for healthier options like fruits and water.
- Encouraging regular dental check-ups: Schedule your baby’s first dental visit within six months after their first tooth erupts or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. Regular dental check-ups can help detect and prevent any potential dental issues.
- Avoiding sharing utensils or cleaning pacifiers with your mouth: Bacteria that cause tooth decay can be transferred from your mouth to your baby’s mouth. Avoid sharing utensils or cleaning pacifiers by putting them in your mouth.
Remember, early dental care is important for your baby’s overall oral health. By establishing good oral hygiene habits early on, you can set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.
