Parents play a crucial role in establishing lifelong oral health habits for their children by starting baby teeth care early. Proper routines prevent cavities and support development, drawing families to pediatric dentistry services like those at PureSmile.
Why Baby Teeth Matter
Baby teeth guide speech, chewing, and jaw growth while reserving space for permanent teeth. Neglecting them risks misalignment, speech delays, and nutritional issues in growing children. Healthy primary teeth set the foundation for confident smiles, as emphasized in pediatric dentistry.
Care Before First Tooth
Wipe gums twice daily with a clean, damp washcloth after feedings and before bed to remove bacteria and sugars. This simple step prevents plaque buildup even without teeth. PureSmile recommends starting this habit from birth for optimal results.
Brushing Newborn Teeth
Brush emerging teeth twice a day using a soft infant toothbrush and a rice-grain-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste. Use plain water initially for babies under 2, then introduce fluoride after consulting a dentist. Floss when teeth touch, and teach spitting around age 2.
Diet and Habit Tips
Avoid bedtime bottles with milk, juice, or formula—use water only to prevent decay. Limit sugary drinks and encourage healthy, low-sugar foods. Pacifiers are fine but clean them regularly without dipping in sweets.
First Dental Visits
Schedule a checkup by the child’s first birthday or first tooth for early issue detection and fluoride varnish application. Regular visits at PureSmile help monitor development and customize care plans. Early intervention boosts long-term oral health and pediatric traffic to specialized practices.
