As a new parent, youre focused on feeding, changing, and soothing your babybut dont forget that oral care starts earlier than many people think. Even before the first tooth appears, your babys oral health plays a crucial role in their overall development. At McLevin Dental Clinic in Scarborough, we guide families through every stage of dental care, including how to protect your little ones smile from the very beginning.
Why Baby Teeth Matter
Baby teeth (also known as primary teeth) are temporary, but they serve important functions. They help your child chew properly, support speech development, and hold space for adult teeth. Healthy baby teeth set the foundation for a lifetime of good oral habits.
Heres how you can care for your babys oral health, step by step:
1. Start Before the First Tooth Appears
Good dental care begins even before your babys teeth erupt. After feedings, gently wipe your babys gums using a clean, damp cloth or a soft finger brush. This helps remove milk residue and bacteria and gets your child used to the idea of oral hygiene.
2. Begin Brushing Early
As soon as the first tooth appearsusually around six monthsstart brushing with a soft-bristled, infant-sized toothbrush. Use a smear (about the size of a grain of rice) of fluoride toothpaste. Brush gently twice a day, especially after the last feeding at night.
3. Avoid Putting Baby to Bed with a Bottle
One of the most common causes of early childhood cavities is baby bottle tooth decay. This occurs when babies fall asleep with a bottle of milk or juice, allowing sugars to pool around their teeth for extended periods. Always remove the bottle after feeding, and never use it as a pacifier.
4. Limit Sugary Drinks and Snacks
Even before your child eats solid food, its important to establish healthy habits. Avoid offering juice or sweetened drinks in a bottle or sippy cup. As your child grows, choose snacks like fresh fruit, yogurt, or cheese instead of sugary treats that can contribute to decay.
5. Use the Right Amount of Fluoride
Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and prevent cavities. Use a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste once the first tooth appears, and increase it to a pea-sized amount around age 3. Make sure to teach your child not to swallow toothpaste, and supervise brushing until at least age 6.
6. Schedule Your Babys First Dental Visit
The Canadian Dental Association recommends that your baby see a dentist within six months of the first tooth erupting or by their first birthday. Early visits allow your dentist to check for any signs of early decay, assess development, and guide you on feeding and hygiene habits.
7. Avoid Sharing Spoons or Pacifiers
Bacteria that cause cavities can be passed from parent to child through saliva. Avoid sharing utensils, tasting baby food with the same spoon, or cleaning pacifiers with your mouth. Always use separate items for your babys oral care.
8. Encourage a Cup by Age One
Transitioning from bottle to cup by your babys first birthday helps reduce the risk of prolonged exposure to sugars. Limit the use of sippy cups to mealtimes, and offer water between meals.
9. Stay Consistent with Oral Hygiene
Teething, fussiness, and busy routines may make it difficult to brush your childs teeth every day. But consistency is key. Brushing twice daily, even during tough times, will set the stage for healthy habits and prevent early cavities.
10. Model Good Oral Hygiene Habits
Children learn by watching their parents. When your child sees you brushing, flossing, and going to the dentist regularly, theyre more likely to adopt these habits themselves. Make oral care a family activity thats fun and routine.
Conclusion: Your Babys Smile Starts with You
Building strong dental habits from infancy can help prevent future dental issues and foster a lifetime of healthy smiles. At McLevin Dental Clinic in Scarborough, were here to support new parents every step of the way with family-friendly dental care, guidance, and encouragement.
If your baby has a first tooth or is approaching their first birthday, now is the perfect time to schedule their first dental visit. Contact us today to book an appointment and learn more about how to give your child the healthiest start possible.