Starting dental visits early isn't just about oral health—it's about setting your child up for a lifetime of positive dental experiences. When your little one visits Kids Tooth Team from infancy, they're doing more than just getting their gums checked. They're embarking on a journey that will shape their attitude towards dental care for years to come.
Believe it or not, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that babies visit the dentist by their first birthday or within 3 months of their first tooth's appearance. While it may seem unusual to bring a toothless infant to the dentist, these early visits are crucial for your child's long-term oral health.
At Kids Tooth Team, our Buda pediatric dentists specialize in gentle, age-appropriate care for your little ones. During your infant's visit, we conduct a "lap exam." You'll hold your baby on your lap while one of our pediatric dentists gently cleans their gums and any emerging teeth, and assesses their oral development.
After the exam, you'll have the opportunity to discuss your child's oral health with their dentist. This is your chance to ask questions about teething, oral care routines, or any concerns you may have. Our goal is to provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to nurture your child's healthy smile from day one.
Around 6 months of age, most babies start teething, though some may take a bit longer. Keep an eye out for common teething signs: fussiness, sleep disturbances, swollen or inflamed gums, excessive drooling, and a rash around the mouth.
While teething is a natural process that doesn't require special treatment, there are simple ways to comfort your little one if they're particularly cranky. Try gently massaging their gums with a clean finger or a cold, damp washcloth. You can also use the back of a chilled spoon to provide soothing pressure on their gums.
Another tried-and-true solution is a teething ring, typically made of soft, chewable silicone. These allow your baby to bite down and apply pressure to their emerging teeth and tender gums, offering natural relief from teething discomfort. Remember, every child teethes differently, so what works best may vary from baby to baby.
When your child doesn’t have any teeth, you should wipe their gums with a clean washcloth after they feed. Once your child gets their first tooth, you should clean it with a grain-of-rice-sized dab of toothpaste on a soft-bristled baby toothbrush, and continue to do so as their other teeth emerge.
You should brush your infant’s teeth and gums at least twice per day, ideally once in the morning and once at night after their final feeding. This is the best way to keep their teeth and gums healthy.
Maintaining proper at-home oral care, feeding your infant a healthy diet, and visiting one of our dentists for a six-month teeth cleaning and oral exam will help you avoid common issues like tooth decay and plaque buildup. Follow the doctor's instructions for caring for your child’s mouth and be consistent with their oral care as they grow.
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We want to make sure your little one's smile stays healthy AND you get the most out of your insurance benefits!
Remember:
Most plans reset on January 1st
Unused benefits don't roll overYour deductible starts over in the new year
*Benefits vary by plan. We're happy to help you understand your coverage!
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