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Infant/Toddler Oral Health Care

Dec 13, 2022

 

0-6 Months Old

Implementing oral hygiene routines from the start can make a big difference for your child’s oral health in the long run. Even though babies don’t start getting teeth until about 6-8 months, there are still steps you can take to ensure good oral hygiene. After every feeding, take a damp washcloth or gauze pad and gently rub your infant’s gums. Stay away from sharing utensils or washing pacifiers/bottle nipples by putting them in your mouth as these actions can spread bacteria, leading to eventual tooth decay.

 

6-12 Months Old

Once that first tooth pops through, you can transition to using a soft bristled toothbrush with a grain of rice equivalent of fluoridated toothpaste. You still want to make sure to massage the gum tissue with a damp washcloth or gauze pad. For more information regarding this stage, check out our “Baby’s First Teeth” Guide.

 

12 + Months Old

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) both suggest taking your child for their first dental checkup by age one, or approximately 6 months after their first tooth erupts (whichever comes first). Having a comfortable first appointment will help put your child at ease for any future dental visits and set them up for a lifetime of dental health and enjoyment. .

 

Give us a call at 949-644-0611 or schedule an appointment online. We look forward to meeting you and your child!