A baby’s gummy smile doesn’t last for long. Within a matter of months, teeth that have formed beneath the gums begin to appear. By age three, children typically have a full set of baby teeth. As you know, these teeth won’t stand the test of time. As your child grows, larger permanent teeth form and begin to rise to the surface. While you certainly want your child to have good oral hygiene, you may wonder how much really needs to be done for a set of functionally disposable teeth. Here is the scoop.
Long before your baby’s teeth emerge, you should be taking care of their oral health. After milk feedings, wipe milk from gums, cheeks, and tongue to prevent plaque buildup. It is hard to tell just when those baby teeth are going to poke through, and having a clean mouth will keep decay at bay from the get go. Also remember that sugary drinks such as milk and fruit juice can cause tooth decay. Consequently, your Dentist in Honolulu will advise you never to allow your baby to fall asleep with a bottle, as liquid will likely pool in his mouth for hours after he falls asleep. Water is the only exception to this rule.
Once his first baby teeth make their appearance, add brushing to your baby’s dental health routine. A dampened, soft-bristled brush can be used to brush baby teeth. No toothpaste is necessary at this point. As you do this, become familiar with your baby’s teeth. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, consult with your Dentist in Honolulu. Once your baby has teeth that are close together, you should begin flossing regularly as well.
Truth be told, baby teeth absolutely pave the way for the permanent teeth that follow. Caring for them sets a healthy foundation for the mouth and gums and allows for permanent teeth to be positioned properly once they begin to emerge. Baby teeth enable your baby to chew and to speak correctly. They also prepare your baby’s mouth for appropriate spacing of permanent teeth, acting kind of like place holders. Your Dentist in Honolulu knows that ill cared for baby teeth can inhibit chewing, speech, and the proper eruption of permanent teeth, so it is imperative that you care for them properly.
By the age of three, your baby should begin having semi-annual dental check-ups. During these checkups his teeth will be cleaned and treated with fluoride to protect against tooth decay. X-rays and oral inspection will be performed to check for cavities, infection, or growth problems. Any dental work that is necessary can then be performed before these problems become more serious.
Dentist Honolulu -Looking for direction and instruction in Honolulu for baby teeth care in the first few years of life. get in touch with Pedodontic associates. They offer infants, children, & adolescents dental care services in Honolulu.