A child’s oral health begins with their mother’s healthy conception, as baby teeth develop before birth.
For this reason, pregnant women must have a good and balanced diet, making sure to get enough vitamins and minerals along the way.
Pregnant women should also have a complete dental exam and immediate attention for any oral health issues that they may be currently experiencing.
Maintaining your baby’s dental health is essential, even after birth, before their teeth erupt.
The Teething Stage
Usually, at six months, the baby’s primary teeth (first teeth) begin to sprout through the gums. In addition, by the time a child is three, all twenty-first teeth should be present. Meanwhile, between the ages of six and eleven, a kid begins to lose their primary teeth.
After the first teeth erupt, the child’s first molars (permanent teeth) typically erupt at around age six. Except for the wisdom teeth, which could erupt within the following ten years, most of the 28 teeth should be in place by the age of 13.
A Visit to the Dentist
Your infant should have their first dental visit between six months and one year. However, if your child’s first tooth appears before that time, making an appointment for your infant as soon as possible is critical for your child’s oral health.
The dentist must evaluate the child’s possibility of developing dental issues at their initial appointment. In addition, the examination and history of the mother’s teeth can help predict the infant’s future oral health. After all, genes play a significant role.
Children with dental complications due to a disease, an injury, or a developmental problem must see a pediatric dentist immediately. A pediatrician or family doctor must also examine the child if these dental problems extend beyond the child’s teeth to provide additional treatment.
How to Take Care of Your Baby’s Gums and Teeth:
- It is always preferable to begin good oral hygiene before the first teeth appear. First, clean your baby’s gums twice daily with a gauze pad or a soft cloth to remove plaque. Unfortunately, this can also promote tooth growth.
- Sometimes parents share their forks, spoons, and other utensils with their babies. However, sharing bacteria can lead to early tooth decay in your baby. Likewise, kissing on the lips has the potential to spread bacteria. Maintain good oral health habits in the family to help prevent early childhood tooth decay. Remember that keeping the gums and teeth in good condition reduces the risk of spreading or transmitting harmful bacteria to the baby.
- Feeding your kid nutritious foods will help promote the growth of strong teeth and gums. Recommended foods consist of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid foods that are heavy in sugar and processed carbs.
- Children may accidentally break or knock out a tooth while playing. Therefore, it is helpful to understand how to avoid tooth injury and what to do in the event of a dental emergency. Conduct thorough research on the latter, and use your best judgment as a parent if a dental emergency arises.
For babies and adults, having healthy teeth is very important. However, proper dental health in children starts at a young age. In light of this, do your part to ensure that your infant or a young child grows up with a healthy pair of pearly whites.