Early and regular dental visits allow children to become comfortable with treatment while receiving personalized care, nurturing positive attitudes as they grow. Kids Tooth Team provides gentle pediatric dentistry for all ages, even infants. Contact us for a consultation at our convenient South Austin pediatric dental office. Establishing great dental habits early on helps safeguard your child’s smile.
It may seem unusual, but the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends an initial visit by age one or within three months of the first tooth emerging. Kids Tooth Team delivers gentle, customized infant care for our newest little patients!
During "lap exams", parents hold their baby carefully on their lap while dentists conduct a thorough assessment of dental health, cleaning teeth and gums. This first appointment allows families the opportunity to discuss oral development, ask questions and receive guidance on caring for new smiles. Establishing quality dental habits early has lifelong benefits.
While timelines vary, most babies start teething around 6 months. Signs can include fussiness, disrupted sleep, swollen inflamed gums, excessive drooling and facial rashes. Families may provide relief by gently massaging gums with a clean finger, cold washcloth or spoon. Soft teething rings also allow biting pressure to ease pain. Beyond comforting measures, no special care is necessary as new teeth emerge. Monitoring symptoms and maintaining oral hygiene keeps babies healthy throughout this natural process.
Before teeth emerge, gently wipe gums with a clean washcloth after feeding. Once the first tooth appears, brush softly with a smear of rice-grain sized toothpaste on a baby toothbrush. As additional teeth come in, continue brushing at least twice daily - ideally after morning and before bedtime feedings. Establishing these dental hygiene habits early keeps infants' mouths clean for optimal health.
Consistent at-home oral care, healthy diet and regular professional cleanings every six months helps avoid issues like decay or excessive plaque. By following our dentists' recommendations, monitoring erupting teeth, and maintaining diligent hygiene routines, families can optimize infants' dental health. Staying on top of proper care while establishing great habits from the start keeps new smiles happy and healthy.