A first tooth breaking through the gum surface is a proud moment for every parent. It is a bittersweet time for both parents and little ones because teething isn’t a pleasant journey. Every emerging tooth is accompanied by restless nights, unpleasant nappy-changes, and high fevers. That first tooth also signals that the time for more serious dental care has arrived.
So, how do you care for your little one’s smile before and after the arrival of the first tooth? Our Shire children’s dentists have the best tips for you.
Baby Teeth: Just as Important As Permanent Teeth
First, parents need to realise that temporary baby teeth (milk teeth) are just as important as the permanent adult teeth that will be showing up in about seven years.
Tiny chompers are not just for cuteness. Baby teeth are placeholders for permanent teeth and can help children chew properly so they can digest food well. They even play a part in speech development and word pronunciation.
When To Expect a First Tooth!
Little ones develop at a different pace. The big moment of a first tooth can arrive anywhere between three months after birth up until the first birthday. Most parents do get to celebrate the arrival of the bottom front teeth about 6 to 12 months after birth.
Caring For Infant Teeth at Every Stage
Healthy oral care for little ones can vary between the infancy and toddler stages. Here’s what your oral care plan should look like during each stage.
- Before a First Tooth
Brushing is unnecessary before the arrival of the first tooth and might even be damaging to the gums. Parents only need to clean the baby’s gums with a soft cloth twice a day. The most important thing at this stage is not to put infants to bed with a bottle. Sugars in milk will increase the amount of bacteria lingering on the gums and might cause the gums to become inflamed and sore.
- Baby Teeth Care Basics
Parents can go toothbrush shopping the moment that first tooth breaks through. You will need to thoroughly brush every surface tooth twice a day. This is also a crucial time to stop putting your little one to bed with a bottle. Bottles should be removed as soon as little ones are done drinking because sugary treats will affect those fragile young teeth.
- Toddler Teeth Care Basics
Toddlers should brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes. At this point, only a little bit of toothpaste is needed. It is also best to try to eliminate nighttime feeding or drinking and to limit sugary snacks and sodas as much as possible.
When to Book at a Shire Paediatric Dentist
It is best to book your first paediatric dental appointment upon the arrival of the first tooth. You can, of course, also book an appointment if the gums are noticeably swollen and red or if you notice any other concerning issues.
Professional Dental Cleaning for Toddlers and Babies?
It is very good for toddlers to get dental cleanings every six months. These sessions are great for teaching little ones about oral health, can prevent painful cavities, and will get little ones a little bit more familiar with your local Sutherland Shire family dentist.
How Often Should Babies and Toddlers Visit a Dentist?
For optimal care and monitoring, you should book a dental visit once every six months. Biannual checkups are essential for monitoring oral development and establishing healthy dental habits in younger kids.
Find a Trusted Children’s Dentist in the Sutherland Shire
The arrival of little teeth certainly is worth celebrating, and the best way to celebrate a first tooth is with an appointment at Shire Doctors and Dentists. Our paediatric dentists are the best at caring for little teeth and will help guide you and your little one to a healthier and brighter smile.
Contact Shire Doctors and Dentists today and book your child’s first dental appointment.