9 Essential Dental Tips for New Moms and Their Babies

Your baby’s teeth begin to grow long before birth, and maintaining a healthy diet throughout your pregnancy is essential. Oral health in the mother is a strong indicator of the child’s future oral health, so it's important to keep up with good oral hygiene, visit the dentist, and attend regular cleanings.

For working mothers, managing your new routine and ensuring your baby's health might seem overwhelming. Here are 9 dental tips from doctors and specialists to help reassure you and guide you in caring for your baby’s teeth.

Dr. Osama Alawi’s Tips on Baby Teeth

Dr. Osama Alawi, a specialist in dental restoration and smile rehabilitation at Harmony Medical Center in Dubai, shares important advice:

When Will My Baby’s Teeth Appear?

At birth, babies typically have 20 primary teeth (also known as baby teeth or milk teeth) hidden beneath the gums. Baby teeth usually begin to appear between 6 to 12 months of age. However, Dr. Osama notes, “This varies from child to child. On average, most babies have a full set of primary teeth by the age of 3.” Common signs of teething include irritability, excessive drooling, chewing on objects, and tender or swollen gums. To soothe your teething baby, gently massage their gums with a clean finger or cloth, or offer a chilled teething ring or pain relief as advised by your dentist.

Although you might consult a pediatrician for your child’s health, don’t forget to see a pediatric dentist once your child’s first tooth appears. The first visit will mostly be educational and provide the necessary tools to keep your child free of cavities.

When Can My Baby Start Brushing Their Teeth?

Very young babies cannot clean their own teeth, so Dr. Osama recommends that mothers follow these guidelines:

  1. Before teeth appear: Start cleaning your baby’s mouth and gums with a soft, damp cloth after each feeding or use a baby toothbrush.
  2. Once teeth appear: Brush their teeth twice a day with a small amount (about the size of a grain of rice) of fluoride toothpaste.
  3. For children aged 3 to 6 years: Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste and ensure your child spits out any excess after brushing.

Also, avoid using sugary liquids in bottles, such as milk or fruit juice, as these can cause tooth decay.

Does Using a Pacifier Affect My Baby’s Teeth?

Dr. Osama advises discussing your child’s oral habits with a pediatric dentist, especially regarding pacifiers. “Using a pacifier or sucking their thumb isn’t harmful at an early age, but it can become an issue if it becomes a long-term habit,” says Dr. Osama. Extended use of a pacifier or thumb sucking can affect your child’s tooth positioning and jaw alignment. Here are some tips to prevent problems:

  • Consult your dentist for advice on breaking these habits.
  • If you give your baby a pacifier, avoid dipping it in sugary substances.
  • Clean the pacifier with soap and water if it falls on the ground.
  • Never tie a pacifier to a string or cord, as this can cause choking.

Dental Emergencies for Kids

Dental emergencies can be frightening, especially when they involve your little one. Here are some common situations and what to do:

What if My Baby’s Baby Tooth Falls Out?

Dr. Osama explains that it’s best not to try replanting a baby tooth, as it could damage the permanent tooth growing underneath.

What if a Permanent Tooth Falls Out?

If your child loses a permanent tooth, handle it carefully by picking it up from the crown (not the root). Gently rinse it with water (don’t use soap or scrub), and contact your dentist immediately. Prompt action increases the chances of saving the tooth.

What Should I Do if My Baby’s Tooth Chips or Breaks?

If your child chips or breaks a tooth, contact a pediatric dentist right away. Rinse their mouth with water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. If you find the broken piece of the tooth, bring it with you to the dentist.

What if My Child Has a Toothache?

Toothaches in children can be caused by cavities, infections, trauma, or loose fillings. If your child complains of tooth pain, contact the dentist immediately. While waiting for the appointment:

  • Rinse your child’s mouth with water.
  • Apply a cold compress to the cheek to relieve pain.
  • Do not place aspirin directly on the painful tooth.
  • You can give your child over-the-counter pain medication (appropriate for their age and weight) to ease the discomfort.

Preventing Dental Accidents

To avoid dental injuries:

  • Ensure your child doesn’t run with objects like pencils, glasses, or toothbrushes in their mouth.
  • Secure areas with potential hazards to prevent falls.
  • Make sure your child wears a mouthguard during sports.
  • Teach your child never to use their teeth as tools to open or cut things.
  • Avoid giving hard candy or snacks that could break teeth.

Children should floss once a day and brush their teeth twice daily for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste. Proper oral hygiene is key to preventing cavities and gum disease. Parents should supervise their children’s brushing until they are around 7 or 8 years old.

Can Cavities Be Treated with Medicine?

A relatively new treatment for cavities in children is Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF), an FDA-approved topical solution that can treat cavities without the need for injections or drilling. Dr. Osama notes that it is an effective, non-invasive alternative for treating cavities, especially in younger children who may be too anxious to undergo traditional treatments.

What is Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)? SDF is a liquid that helps stop tooth decay by killing bacteria and preventing further damage to the tooth. It is a painless treatment that is applied directly to the cavity, and it can also help remineralize the tooth.

How is SDF Applied? A small amount of SDF is applied to the decayed tooth surface. It’s a simple, non-surgical procedure done in the office. It’s especially useful for children who might otherwise require sedation or injections.

Who Is a Good Candidate for SDF? SDF is generally safe for most children. However, it’s not recommended for children with silver allergies or those with severe cavities near the nerve. The most common side effect is dark staining around the treated area, but it’s a small trade-off for preventing further decay.

By following these tips and being proactive about your child’s dental health, you can help ensure that they develop strong, healthy teeth that will last a lifetime.

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