When you look at your newborn, you may be surprised to learn that all of her baby teeth are present. You can’t see them, but they are in her jaws, waiting for their time to erupt. For that reason, you should begin a dental hygiene regimen with her, to set the stage for a lifetime of good oral health.
You should start taking care of her mouth as soon as possible. She may not have any teeth to brush, but you can wipe her gums with a clean, moist piece of gauze or a washcloth. You should begin brushing her teeth twice a day as soon as they come in since they will be vulnerable to decay. Up to the age of three, you should use a toothbrush that fits her mouth, and a dab of toothpaste that is about the size of a grain of rice. Incidentally, this is also about the time she should have her first dental visit. Ideally, the first trip to the dentist should be within six months of your child’s first tooth coming in, and before her first birthday.
From the age of three to six years, you should make sure that your child’s teeth are brushed twice a day, using a pea-sized drop of toothpaste. You should use fluoride toothpaste for your child starting when her first tooth comes in, but be sure that she does not swallow the toothpaste. You will need to supervise your child’s brushing until you feel confident that she can brush on her own, but it is still a good idea check her teeth when she is done. When she has two teeth that touch one another, it is time to start flossing her teeth.
If it is time for your child’s first dental visit, or if you have questions about her oral health care, our dentist, Dr. Frank Russomanno, Jr. will be happy to meet you! If you live in the Bloomington, Minnesota area, you can make an appointment at Amber Leaf Family Dental by calling 952.881.0504. We’re excited to help your child get started on a lifetime of great smiles!