a small baby with blue eyes with a toothbrush in his hands is trying to scratch his teeth
The first two years of your baby’s life are filled with exciting milestones—from their first words to their first steps. However, one crucial area that is often overlooked is dental health. Even before your baby has a complete set of teeth, it is essential to start building healthy oral care habits.
At Children’s Dental Healthcare, early care leads to lifelong smiles. Here’s what parents should know about supporting their baby’s dental health during the first two years.
Before Teeth Arrive: Oral Care Starts Early
Oral care is necessary even before your baby’s first tooth appears. After feedings, gently clean your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth or a silicone finger brush. This helps remove milk residue and bacteria, creating a clean environment for teeth to erupt.
You should also avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle. Milk or juice sitting in the mouth overnight can contribute to early tooth decay, even before teeth appear.
Teething: What to Expect
Most babies get their first tooth between 6 and 10 months of age. The lower front teeth usually appear first, followed by the upper front teeth. Teething can cause fussiness, drooling, and swollen gums. Try gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger or offering a chilled (not frozen) teething ring to ease discomfort.
When the first tooth appears, it’s time to start brushing. Use a soft baby toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste no bigger than a grain of rice. Brush twice a day to remove bacteria and protect those early teeth.
The First Dental Visit
The Canadian Dental Association recommends that your baby visit a dentist by age one or within six months of their first tooth. This early visit is about more than checking for cavities. It enables your pediatric dentist to monitor your child’s development, offer guidance on brushing and feeding habits, and address your questions about oral care.
At Children’s Dental Healthcare, we make the first visit easy and comfortable for parents and babies. Dr. Hooman Arjomand (Dr. A) provides a gentle exam and guidance tailored to your child’s needs.
Nutrition and Oral Health
Diet plays a significant role in early dental health. Avoid sugary drinks, even fruit juice, and encourage water between feedings once your baby is old enough. If your baby uses a pacifier, never dip it in honey or sugar. As your child transitions to solid foods, focus on nutritious options, such as fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, that support strong teeth and overall health.
Partner with a Pediatric Dental Expert
The first two years are perfect for building strong dental habits. At Children’s Dental Healthcare, we are here to guide you through every step of your baby’s oral health journey.
Children’s Dental Healthcare
3051 Walkers Line, Unit 9, Burlington, ON
Phone: (905) 332-8880
Email: Burlington@ChildrensDentalHealthcare.com
Website: childrensdentalhealthcare.com
Start your child’s smile with expert care from the beginning.
FAQ
Q1: When should I start cleaning my baby’s mouth?
A: Oral care should begin before the first tooth appears. Gently clean your baby’s gums with a soft cloth or silicone brush after feedings to prevent bacteria buildup.
Q2: How do I care for my baby’s teeth once they start teething?
A: Begin brushing as soon as the first tooth erupts using a soft baby toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice), twice a day.
Q3: When should my baby see a dentist for the first time?
A: The Canadian Dental Association recommends that babies visit a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting, whichever comes first.
Q4: What foods and drinks help support early dental health?
A: Avoid sugary drinks and juice. Encourage water between feedings and offer healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and dairy, as your baby begins to eat solids.
Q5: Why are the first two years essential for dental development?
A: Early habits shape lifelong dental health. Monitoring development, preventing decay, and building comfort with dental visits all begin in the first two years.