Infant Oral Care

Oral Care During Pregnancy & Parenthood in Austin, TX

Believe it or not, optimal newborn health begins before the baby is even born. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that all pregnant women receive oral healthcare and counseling during pregnancy. Research has shown evidence that periodontal disease can increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight. Talk to your doctor or dentist about ways you can prevent periodontal disease during pregnancy.

Additionally, parents — especially mothers — with poor oral health may be at a greater risk of passing cavity-causing bacteria to their young children. All parents should follow these simple steps to decrease the risk of spreading these bacteria:

• Visit your dentist for regular cleanings.
• Brush and floss daily to reduce bacterial plaque.
• Proper diet, with the reduction of beverages and foods high in sugar & starch.
• Using fluoridated toothpaste is recommended by the ADA, and rinse every night with an alcohol-free, over-the-counter mouth rinse with .05 % sodium fluoride to reduce plaque levels.
• Don’t share utensils, cups, or food that can cause the transmission of cavity-causing bacteria to your children.
• Using xylitol chewing gum (4 pieces per day by the parent) can decrease a child’s cavities rate.

When Will My Baby Start Getting Teeth?

Teething is the process of a baby’s (primary) teeth coming through the gums into the mouth. In general, the first baby teeth to appear are usually the lower front (anterior) teeth, and they usually begin erupting between the age of six to nine months. However, all babies are different, so it isn’t unusual if your child’s teeth start erupting before or after this time.

If you have any questions or concerns about your baby’s teeth, you may refer to “Eruption of Your Child’s Teeth” on our Pediatric Dentistry FAQs page or contact us during normal business hours.

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay (Early Childhood Cavities)

One severe form of dental decay among young children is baby bottle tooth decay. This condition is caused by frequent and long exposures of an infant’s teeth to liquids that contain sugar. Among these liquids are milk (including breast milk), formula, fruit juice, and other sweetened drinks.

Putting a baby to bed for a nap or at night with a bottle other than water can cause serious and rapid tooth decay. Sweet liquid pools around the child’s teeth, allowing plaque bacteria to produce acids that attack tooth enamel. If you must give the baby a bottle as a comforter at bedtime, it should contain only water. If your child won’t fall asleep without the bottle and his/her usual beverage, gradually dilute the bottle’s contents with water over two to three weeks.

After each feeding, wipe the baby’s gums and teeth with a damp washcloth or gauze pad to remove any sugars, milk, or residual food. The easiest way to do this is to sit down, place the child’s head in your lap or lay the child on a dressing table or the floor. Whatever position you use, be sure you can see into the child’s mouth easily.

Should My Child Use Fluoridated Toothpaste?

The American Academy of Pediatrics, The American Dental Association, and The American Association of Pediatric Dentistry recommend fluoride toothpaste for babies, toddlers, and adults.
When your child is about three years old, you can start using pea-sized amounts of fluoridated toothpaste to brush their teeth. Fluoride is important because the minerals found in it help prevent tooth decay and strengthen teeth.

How Do I Clean My Child’s Mouth?

As soon as your child produces their first teeth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste to clean the teeth twice a day. Do not rinse their mouth after brushing.

When children are older (from three onwards), they will still need supervision when brushing their teeth. Ensure that they use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste twice a day, bruising for two minutes each time. They must floss daily too. Don’t have them rinse after brushing yet, as children tend to swallow toothpaste.

How Can I Help My Child During Teething?

Teething can be quite the ordeal, and you can expect your child to drool, cry and be cranky due to pain. Here are a few ways to help ease the pain for both you and your child:

• Rub your baby’s gums with wet gauze to ease any pressure.
• A teething ring or cold spoon can be soothing on your baby’s gums. To avoid cavities – don’t dip these items in any sugary substances.
• Try over-the-counter pain remedies such as Tylenol or ibuprofen.

Nutrition & Your Child’s Dental Health

Children need food from all major food groups to develop properly and stay healthy. Too many sugars, carbohydrates, savory foods, and starches can cause tooth decay.

Here are some tips for choosing the right, healthy foods for your child’s teeth:

• Choose healthy snacks such as fruit and vegetables rather than sugary foods and carbohydrates
• Avoid chewy and sticky foods
• Incorporate cheese with lunch and as a snack
• Make sure your child eats as few snacks as possible
• Avoid any sugary foods that linger on the teeth
• Buy sugar-free or unsweetened food items
• Never put your child to bed with juice, soda, bottled milk, or formula. Rather give your child water.

Start Your Child’s Smile Journey Today With Our Pediatric Dentist in Austin, TX!

If you want to learn more about our pediatric dentistry services for your child, give us a call or schedule a consultation today! Our friendly staff will happily assist you.

We look forward to meeting you and starting your smile journey together!

Lone Star Pediatric Dental & Braces proudly serves the community of Austin, TX.