Welcoming a new baby is one of life’s greatest joys—and so is seeing that first tooth appear. At Elite Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here to help parents in Atlanta and surrounding communities set their little ones up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Many parents wonder when dental care should begin for babies, and the answer might surprise you: it starts long before that first tooth ever erupts.
Caring for Gums Before Teeth Appear
Good oral care begins even before your baby’s teeth come in. Gently wiping your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings helps remove milk residue and bacteria while getting your child used to daily oral care. This simple step lays the foundation for future brushing habits and keeps your baby’s mouth clean and healthy.
The Arrival of the First Tooth
When your baby’s first tooth breaks through—typically around six months—it’s time to introduce a baby toothbrush. Choose a soft-bristled brush designed for infants, and start by brushing gently with water. If your child resists the brush at first, don’t worry. You can alternate between a washcloth and the toothbrush until brushing becomes part of your baby’s routine. During the teething stage, many babies enjoy chewing on their toothbrush, which helps soothe sore gums while encouraging comfort with brushing.
Introducing Toothpaste and Building Habits
Once more teeth appear, it’s safe to introduce a tiny amount of fluoridated toothpaste—about the size of a grain of rice. Begin teaching your child to spit out the toothpaste, even though swallowing small amounts is not harmful at this stage. Consistent brushing helps prevent early cavities and reinforces the idea that dental care is an important part of daily life.
Protecting Against Early Cavities
Even baby teeth are vulnerable to decay, especially if exposed to sugars for long periods. Avoid letting your baby fall asleep with a bottle and limit sweetened beverages, including fruit juice. Cleaning your child’s teeth and gums regularly prevents early childhood decay, sometimes called “baby-bottle caries,” and ensures those first teeth stay strong and healthy.
The First Dental Visit
Your child’s first dental visit should happen by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears. This early visit allows us to examine your baby’s teeth, gums, and jaw development while offering guidance on teething, brushing, and nutrition. At Elite Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, our goal is to make every visit gentle, positive, and stress-free—for both parent and child.
Setting the Stage for Lifelong Oral Health
Babies learn by watching, and parents play a big role in setting the example. Let your child see you brushing and flossing daily, and offer them a toothbrush of their own to practice with. Turning brushing into a fun family activity helps create lasting habits that carry into adulthood.
Early dental care is one of the greatest gifts you can give your child. At Elite Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we’re proud to help families in Atlanta and Chastain Park build healthy habits from the very first smile. Schedule your baby’s first visit today and start their journey toward a lifetime of confident, cavity-free teeth.
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