On January 28th my wife Abby and I welcomed our first child Noah. We learned quickly that being a new parent is a challenge and there are so many questions to be answered. At Growing Smiles in Floral Vale, we are here to help new parents create a healthy smile that will last a lifetime.
Oral Health Care starts at birth. Dental caries in infants is a disease that is preventable. By minimizing your newborn’s exposure to the cavity causing bacteria Mutants Steptococci (MS) you can help prevent cavities before their first tooth erupts. Babies are not born with (MS), but transmission can occur soon after birth and is typically transferred (~70%) by their mother or primary caregiver.
Ways to prevent tooth decay before their first tooth erupts1. Clean your infant’s gums after feeding:
- Use a moistened washcloth wrapped around an index finger, or a very soft, baby toothbrush (with little pressure) to gently massage the gum tissue of your infant.
- Do not put your baby to bed with a bottle, instead use a pacifier. Pacifiers have been shown to decrease the incidence of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and as long as your child is weaned by one there is little or no adverse effects to their developing dentition.
- Avoid testing the temperature of the bottle with your mouth, or cleaning a pacifier or a bottle nipple by putting it in your mouth. These practices can help stop the transmission of of (MS).
- Important for mothers or caregivers to see their dentist regularly. Those with poor oral health are at greater risk for infecting their children with (MS) increasing their child’s carries risk at an early age.
- Visit our office within 6 months of your child’s first tooth erupting. Providing the best dental care for your child is our top priority. Children that see the dentist by their first birthday have shown to have significantly less decay than those who are seen by three. Establishing a dental home is important and we will create a personalized dental plan for you and your child.
