Oral and dental health in babies is an important part of overall health and can be positively supported by taking the right care and precautions. Care and protection of milk teeth ensures the healthy development of permanent teeth.
Oral and Dental Health Care in Babies
One of the most important steps for babies’ oral and dental health is proper nutrition. Both breast milk and bottle-fed formula are important for the general health and dental development of babies. Cleaning the mouth, especially after night feedings, is important to prevent tooth decay.
Pacifier and Bottle Use
The use of pacifiers and bottles that are not suitable for babies’ oral health can cause tooth decay. When using pacifiers and feeding bottles, sterilized products should be preferred and should not be left in the baby’s mouth for a long time.
Teeth Cleaning
Teeth cleaning in babies should start from the teething process. Babies’ teeth and gums should be gently cleaned with a clean cloth or a soft toothbrush. Cleaning the mouth, especially after night feedings, is important to prevent tooth decay.
Regular Dentist Check-ups
The beginning of the teething process is recommended for babies to start checking up with the dentist. The dentist will monitor the baby’s dental development and make recommendations about oral and dental health.
Before your baby’s teeth appear, you can gently wipe his gums twice a day with a warm, damp cloth or finger brush. After the first tooth emerges, you can brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled baby toothbrush and fluoride-free toothpaste.
Encourage your baby to drink from a glass instead of a bottle. Avoid sugary foods and drinks. Take your baby to the dentist regularly.
Teething Period in Babies
Teething Process
Babies usually start teething at the age of six months. This process may differ for each baby. The first teeth are usually the lower central incisors. Then the upper incisors, lateral incisors and finally the back molars emerge.
Teething Symptoms
During the teething process, babies may experience symptoms such as crying, restlessness, putting their hands or any object in their mouths due to itching, and swelling and redness in their gums.
Teething Period and Problems in Babies
Teething Pain
Babies may experience pain and discomfort during the teething process. During this period, gently massaging babies’ gums or using a cold mouthguard can provide relief.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay in babies can often occur as a result of consuming excessive sugary foods or not cleaning the mouth after night feedings. For this reason, attention should be paid to the nutrition of babies and their teeth should be cleaned regularly.
Paying due attention to oral and dental health in babies is important for healthy dental development and general health. It is important to consult a pediatric dentist if there are any problems with the oral and dental health of babies.
Tooth Decay in Babies
Tooth decay is a very common problem in babies. Tooth decay is a disease characterized by the destruction of tooth enamel and the formation of cavities in the teeth. Some factors that can lead to tooth decay in babies include:
- Frequent consumption of sugary foods and drinks
- Inadequate oral hygiene
- Falling asleep with a bottle
- Bacterial transmission from mother or father through saliva
What Should Be Considered to Prevent Tooth Decay in Babies?
Do not give your baby sugary foods and drinks. Brush your baby’s teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride-free toothpaste. Take your baby to the dentist regularly.
When Should the First Visit to the Dentist be Made for Babies?
It is recommended that you take your baby to the dentist after his first tooth emerges or when he turns 1 year old. The dentist will examine your baby’s teeth and gums, provide information about oral hygiene, and recommend the necessary measures to prevent tooth decay.
What Should Be Considered About Dental Health in Babies?
- Be patient to get your baby into the habit of brushing teeth.
- Make brushing your baby’s teeth fun.
- Change your baby’s toothbrush and toothpaste regularly.
- If you observe symptoms such as redness, swelling and bleeding in your baby’s gums, consult a dentist.
Protecting babies’ oral and dental health is very important for their general health. By following the steps above and taking your baby to the dentist regularly, you can prevent tooth decay and ensure your baby has a healthy smile.