Long before a baby begins to teeth, it is important for parents to practice beneficial oral health care. Wiping a baby’s gums down with a soft, wet washcloth or brushing twice a day will help parents and children to assimilate to new routines.
Baby Teeth Care from Dr. Alexander Ash in Studio City, California
Dentists often encourage the use of fluoride during developmental periods of a child’s life to build strong teeth. Different toothpastes and mouthrinse may contain fluoride, but because young children often swallow these products, these products are NOT recommended until a child is much older and fully understands dental care. If a dental care professional recommends using toothpaste, use only a rice or pea-sized quantity to prevent excess toothpaste from being swallowed. For toddlers and infants, drinking water richer in fluoride, in safe quantities, and under adult supervision, may offer a solution to strengthening developed teeth. Too much fluoride, however, may result in an appearance of white spots on the surface of teeth, known as fluorosis. Parents need to find a healthy balance of fluoride for their toddler’s safety. Please consult your dentist or family’s pediatrician for further questions or concerns regarding a child’s oral care and development.
A baby’s teeth may appear as early as six months or as late as 18 months; every child is different. Consulting a baby’s doctor ensures the child’s utmost individualized health care. Infant’s toothbrushes have small heads with soft bristles and large handles for easy-to-hold capabilities. Companies have created baby toothbrushes for the sole purpose of introducing a child to daily oral maintenance. For reputable baby oral care products and baby oral health care, please click here.
By Alexander Ash, DDS
Dr. Ash is the founder of Studio Dental Care. He earned his Doctorate at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, followed by two General Residencies at New York-Presbyterian / Weill-Cornell Hospital and the UCLA Sepulveda VA Hospital.