Teething and Early Dental Care: What New Parents Need to Know
As new parents, there are many exciting milestones to look forward to, and your baby’s first tooth is one of them. Teething is a natural part of your child’s development, but it can come with its fair share of challenges. At Kids Dental Spot, our goal is to support families in Anaheim by providing helpful information on how to care for your baby’s teeth from the very beginning. Teething can be tricky, but with the right care, you can help your child develop healthy dental habits for life.
When Does Teething Start?
Most babies will begin teething between 4 to 7 months of age, although every child is different. The lower front teeth (central incisors) are usually the first to come in, followed by the upper front teeth. By the time your child is 3 years old, they should have a full set of 20 baby teeth.
It’s important to start caring for your baby’s mouth even before teeth come in, and once teething starts, knowing how to manage your baby’s discomfort while ensuring proper oral care is crucial.
How to Soothe Teething Discomfort
Teething can be uncomfortable for your baby, but there are ways to help soothe them:
Teething Toys: Provide your baby with a cold teething toy to chew on. This can relieve some of the pressure they feel on their gums.
Gum Massage: Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger can also help ease discomfort.
Cold Washcloth: Placing a cool, wet washcloth in the fridge (not freezer) and letting your baby chew on it can provide relief.
The Importance of Early Dental Care
Many parents might not realize how important it is to start caring for their child’s teeth as soon as they begin to appear. Baby teeth are essential for chewing, speaking, and holding space for permanent teeth. Here’s how to care for your baby’s teeth from the start:
Before Teeth Erupt: Gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feeding to remove bacteria and keep their mouth clean.
Once Teeth Appear: As soon as that first tooth comes in, begin brushing it twice a day using a soft-bristled, age-appropriate toothbrush and a smear (about the size of a grain of rice) of fluoride toothpaste.
Establish a Routine: Making oral care a regular part of your baby’s daily routine will set the foundation for good oral hygiene habits later in life.
Why Your Baby’s First Dental Visit is Important
One of the most common questions we hear at Kids Dental Spot is, "When should I bring my baby to the dentist?" We recommend scheduling your baby’s first dental visit in Anaheim by their first birthday or as soon as their first tooth erupts. Early dental visits are essential for several reasons:
Preventive Care: A dental check-up for your baby helps identify any potential issues early on, such as tooth decay or developmental concerns.
Building Comfort: Starting dental visits early helps your baby get used to the environment, reducing fear or anxiety about future visits to the pediatric dentist in Anaheim.
Parent Education: Your first dental visit is also an excellent opportunity for you to ask questions and learn more about how to care for your baby’s teeth and gums.
Teething and Cavities: What Parents Should Know
It might surprise new parents to learn that even babies can get cavities. Known as baby bottle tooth decay, this can happen when a baby’s teeth are exposed to sugary liquids, including formula, breast milk, and juice, for extended periods. To prevent this, avoid letting your baby fall asleep with a bottle in their mouth, and always clean their teeth and gums after feeding.
Choosing the Right Toothbrush and Toothpaste
As your child grows, their dental care routine will evolve. Here’s a quick guide to choosing the right toothbrush and toothpaste for your baby and toddler:
0-1 Years Old: Start with a soft-bristled, infant-sized toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste.
1-3 Years Old: Use a toddler-sized toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste as your child learns to brush their teeth.
3+ Years Old: Once your child can spit out toothpaste after brushing, you can increase the amount of toothpaste slightly and continue to supervise their brushing until they can handle it on their own (usually around age 7 or 8).
Proper brushing techniques are important to avoid any harm to your baby’s sensitive gums and teeth. Be sure to use gentle circular motions when brushing, and if you notice any signs of discomfort or redness, adjust your brushing technique or consult with a gentle dentist for children in Anaheim for advice.
Why Choose Kids Dental Spot?
At Kids Dental Spot, we pride ourselves on being the best pediatric dental service office in Anaheim, offering specialized care that focuses on your child’s unique needs. Our team is experienced in working with infants and young children, ensuring that their early dental experiences are positive and stress-free. We’re committed to helping your child develop a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.
If you’re a new parent in Anaheim looking for guidance on your baby’s dental health, Kids Dental Spot is here to help. From your baby’s first tooth to their first dental check-up, we’re your partners in maintaining excellent oral health for your child. Call us today to schedule an appointment and start your baby’s dental journey off right!
Kids Dental Spot is a children’s dental office focused providing pediatric dental services to patients in Anaheim, California. Serving kids, children, infants and adolescents in the heart of Orange County and nearby neighborhoods, such as: Fullerton, Brea, Garden Grove, Santa Ana, Buena Park, Placentia, and Orange.
Pediatric dentistry provides dental care for children from infancy through their teenage years. Our experienced children dentists focuses on gentle, kid-friendly treatments that ensure your child’s comfort and promote long-term oral health for our pediatric patients. From routine cleanings and preventive care to emergency dental services, we are committed to keeping your child’s smile healthy and strong. We understand the unique needs of young patients and strive to create a fun, welcoming environment that makes every dental visit a positive experience for Anaheim families.
Written and Medically Reviewed by Dr. Atiya Bahmanyar, DDS (Board Certified - Doctorate of Dental Surgery)
