A Kid Friendly Dentist in Middletown Offers Insight Into Properly Cleaning Baby Teeth

A kid friendly dentist in Middletown is a great resource for new parents who want to learn about how to properly care for baby teeth. With so much information out there, it can be helpful to have a dentist who works specifically with children address the needs of this important stage in a baby's dental health. Although many parents tend to focus on the challenges of teething, proper care after the teeth have fully grown in is a critical component of proper oral care in babies.

Proper care for baby teeth

One of the most common misconceptions parents have regarding baby oral health is that there is no need to actually brush or care for the baby's teeth, since those teeth are eventually going to fall out anyways. This couldn't be further from the truth, because babies can have tooth decay just like an older child or adult. In addition, baby teeth serve important functions in helping children develop essential skills.

First steps in cleaning baby teeth

Parents do not have to wait until the first sign of a tooth before beginning to clean a baby's mouth. The American Dental Association at mouthhealthy.org recommends parents begin cleaning the baby's mouth even before teeth come in, by wiping with a soft wet cloth or gauze. Tooth decay can occur as soon as the first tooth appears, which is usually between the age of six to 12 months.

Toothpaste and toothbrush

A kid friendly dentist in Middletown can show parents exactly how to properly clean a baby's teeth. The technique involves using a toothbrush designed for children under the age of three. Parents can use fluoride toothpaste in a very small amount. The American Dental Association recommends using a dab of toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. Brushing can be done twice a day.

Risk of tooth decay in babies

Babies can easily succumb to tooth decay if parents are not careful about keeping teeth brushed twice a day and avoiding sugary drinks. Juices and baby formula can both be a source of sugars that, if left on the baby's teeth, can develop harmful bacteria that can lead to tooth decay.

Baby teeth matter

Just because baby teeth are not permanent does not mean they do not serve an important purpose. That is why it is essential to take good care of them until the permanent teeth come in. Baby teeth help provide space for future permanent teeth and assist with speaking, chewing and smiling. These are all skills that babies need to develop properly, and without healthy teeth these abilities can be impaired. A kid friendly dentist in Middletown can begin check-ups on a regular basis to ensure a baby's teeth are healthy and coming in properly.

Conclusion

Developing good oral health habits begins from the first weeks of life. Parents must provide proper oral care and teeth cleaning, especially once the first teeth come in. With the professional advice and insights of a dentist who works with children, parents can rest assured that their baby's teeth are being taken care of.

Request an appointment here: https://www.hvkidsmiles.com or call Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry at (845) 363-4177 for an appointment in our Middletown office.

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