5 Common Questions Parents Ask About Infant Dental Care
New parents often have many questions when it comes to their baby’s well-being. Where can I find a trusted pediatrician? How often should I feed my baby? Should my baby have a daily bath? And, of course, how do I take care of my baby’s teeth?
When it comes to your infant’s oral health, it’s essential to start early. Here, we answer five frequently asked questions about infant dental care to help you protect your little one’s smile from the start.
1. How Should I Clean My Baby’s Gums and Teeth?
From birth, gently clean your baby’s gums with a damp cloth, gauze, or a soft infant toothbrush after feedings and before bedtime. Once the first tooth emerges, use a small-headed, soft-bristled toothbrush to clean it.
2. When Should I Start Using Toothpaste, and How Much Should I Use?
As soon as your baby’s first tooth appears, start using a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste to brush twice a day. For children aged 3 to 6 years, increase the amount to a pea-sized portion. Always encourage your child to spit out any excess toothpaste after brushing.
3. When Should My Child Have Their First Dental Visit?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend that a child’s first dental visit should take place when their first tooth appears or no later than their first birthday.
Since early-stage cavities in babies and toddlers may not show obvious signs, regular checkups help catch potential problems before they become serious. Visiting a pediatric dentist early also allows parents to discuss fluoride needs, oral hygiene habits, and concerns like thumb sucking or pacifier use.
4. If Baby Teeth Fall Out Eventually, Why Is Decay a Concern?
Many parents assume that since baby teeth are temporary, decay isn’t a big issue. However, cavities in baby teeth can lead to pain, infections, and even affect the developing permanent teeth underneath.
Healthy baby teeth are essential for proper speech development, comfortable eating, and maintaining space for adult teeth. Taking care of them is just as important as caring for permanent teeth.
5. How Can I Prevent Tooth Decay in My Baby?
Establishing good oral hygiene practices is key, but there are additional steps you can take to protect your baby’s teeth.
One of the biggest contributors to early childhood cavities is allowing a baby to sleep with a bottle of milk or juice. The sugars in these liquids can remain on the teeth for long periods, leading to decay. If your baby needs a bottle at bedtime, only offer water.
Additionally, experts recommend weaning your baby off bottles by their first birthday. Limit sugary drinks and avoid letting your child use a bottle or sippy cup for extended periods, as this can increase their risk of cavities.
Start Your Child’s Oral Health Journey Early
Good oral health begins at home with proper hygiene, a balanced diet, and routine dental checkups. If you’re looking for an experienced pediatric dentist in Dubai, schedule a visit to ensure your child gets the best start for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
📞 Call us to book your appointment in advance: +971 4568 6449
🏥 For walk-in experience, visit us at: Dental Hub Clinic, Al Barsha Dubai
