Dental Care For Your Baby

Dental care for babies refers to the practices and routines established to promote and maintain the oral health of infants and toddlers. Early dental care is crucial for preventing issues such as tooth decay and establishing healthy oral hygiene habits that can last a lifetime.

At Seaside Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, our pediatric dentist in La Jolla and Scripps Ranch, Dr. Anthony J. Scoma, and his team are dedicated to providing the highest standard of dental care for children of all ages, including infants. Many parents may not realize the importance of early dental care, but starting a baby's oral health journey on the right foot is essential for their future dental health. 

Why Is Dental Care for Babies Important?

Although baby teeth, or primary teeth, are temporary, they play a critical role in a child's overall health and development. These teeth help your child chew food properly, speak clearly, and hold space for permanent teeth. Good oral health during infancy sets the foundation for healthy adult teeth and prevents future dental problems, such as cavities, gum disease, and misalignment.

Early dental care helps to:

• Prevent cavities: Even babies can develop tooth decay, sometimes called "baby bottle tooth decay." Early care helps prevent cavities from forming.
• Establish healthy habits: Brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits should be introduced at a young age to instill a lifetime of good oral hygiene habits.
• Identify early problems: Routine dental checkups help detect issues such as early tooth decay, jaw growth problems, or alignment issues before they worsen.

When Should You Start Dental Care for Your Baby?

It's never too early to start caring for your baby's dental health. Proper oral care begins even before the first tooth appears. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that a baby's first dental visit take place by age 1 or within six months of the first tooth erupting, whichever comes first. 

Here's a general timeline for your baby's dental care:

• 0 to 6 months: Oral care begins before teeth appear. After feeding, gently wipe your baby's gums with a clean, damp cloth.
• 6 to 12 months: Once the first tooth erupts, begin brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste.
• 12 months and beyond: Schedule your baby's first dental visit. Continue brushing, and by the time two teeth touch, start introducing flossing. Contact us to learn more.

Common Dental Concerns for Babies in La Jolla and Scripps Ranch

Babies face unique dental concerns that parents should be aware of. Let's explore some of the most common issues and how to address them.

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

Baby bottle tooth decay occurs when a baby's teeth are exposed to sugary liquids for extended periods. This often happens when babies fall asleep with a bottle of milk, formula, or juice. The sugars in these drinks feed the bacteria in the mouth, leading to tooth decay.

Prevention tips:

• Never put your baby to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, or juice. If necessary, offer only water.
• Start brushing your baby's teeth as soon as the first tooth appears.
• Wipe your baby's gums after feeding to remove any milk residue.

Teething

Teething usually begins around six months of age and can be uncomfortable for your baby. Symptoms include fussiness, drooling, and a desire to chew on objects.

How to soothe teething discomfort:

• Gently massage your baby's gums with a clean finger.
• Provide teething rings or a cool, damp cloth for your baby to chew on.
• Avoid teething gels or medications that contain benzocaine, as they may not be safe for infants.

Thumb Sucking and Pacifier Use

Thumb sucking and pacifier use are natural reflexes that comfort babies. However, doing these for a prolonged period could lead to misaligned teeth or bite issues as permanent teeth begin to come in. 

Tips for managing thumb sucking and pacifier use:

• Encourage other forms of comfort as your baby grows, such as cuddling or reading.
• Wean your baby off pacifiers by age 3 to prevent orthodontic issues.
• Praise and reward your child for not sucking their thumb but avoid punitive measures. 

Lip-Tie and Tongue-Tie

Lip-tie and tongue-tie are conditions where the tissue under the tongue or between the upper lip and gum restricts movement. This can make breastfeeding difficult and may affect speech and dental health later in life.

Treatment options:

• Dr. Scoma can evaluate your baby for these conditions during a dental exam.
• If necessary, a simple procedure called a frenectomy can release the tissue and improve function.

How to Care for Your Baby's Teeth

Creating a solid oral hygiene routine for your baby is essential for preventing decay and ensuring healthy teeth and gums. Here's a step-by-step guide to caring for your baby's teeth and gums:

Cleaning Your Baby's Gums Before Teeth Erupt

Even before the first tooth comes in, it's important to clean your baby's gums. Use a soft, damp cloth or gauze pad to wipe the gums gently after feeding. This removes bacteria and helps your baby get used to the sensation of oral care. 

Brushing Your Baby's Teeth

Once your baby's first tooth appears, you should begin brushing twice a day:

• Use a soft-bristled, age-appropriate toothbrush.
• Apply a tiny smear (the size of a grain of rice) of fluoride toothpaste.
• Gently brush all surfaces of the teeth, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces.
• Continue brushing for your child until they are old enough to do it on their own (usually around age 6 to 8). 

Flossing Your Baby's Teeth

As soon as your baby's teeth start to touch, it's time to introduce flossing. Use soft floss to clean between the teeth and remove plaque. This helps prevent cavities from forming between the teeth. You may need to floss for your child until they develop the dexterity to do it independently.

Choosing the Right Toothpaste

For babies and toddlers under age 3, a small smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice) is sufficient. Fluoride helps strengthen the enamel and protect teeth from decay. Be sure to supervise your child to prevent swallowing too much toothpaste.

Healthy Eating Habits for Healthy Teeth

Diet plays a significant role in your baby's oral health. Sugary and starchy foods can contribute to tooth decay, so it's important to establish healthy eating habits early: 

• Avoid sugary snacks and drinks, especially between meals.
• Offer water or milk instead of juice or soda.
• Encourage healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, and cheese.
• Avoid prolonged use of sippy cups with sugary drinks.

What to Expect at Your Baby's First Dental Visit

Your baby's first dental visit is a significant milestone in their oral health journey. At Seaside Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we strive to make your baby's first visit a positive and stress-free experience. The first visit is an opportunity for Dr. Anthony J. Scoma to assess your baby's dental development and provide guidance on proper pediatric oral care.

Here's what you can expect during your baby's first dental visit:

A Gentle Examination

Dr. Scoma will gently examine your baby's mouth, checking for early signs of tooth decay, gum health, and proper jaw development. The goal is to identify any potential issues and create a plan for ongoing dental care.

Parental Education

Our team will provide you with valuable information on how to care for your baby's teeth and gums at home. You'll receive tips on brushing, flossing, and dietary choices that promote oral health. This is also a great time to ask any questions you may have about teething, thumb sucking, or other concerns. 

Preventive Care Recommendations

To protect your baby's teeth, Dr. Scoma may recommend preventive treatments such as fluoride varnishes or dental sealants when your child is older. These treatments help strengthen enamel and reduce the risk of cavities.

Future Appointments

Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining your baby's oral health. Typically, we recommend visits every six months, but the schedule may vary depending on your child's specific needs.

The Role of Fluoride in Pediatric Dental Care in La Jolla and Scripps Ranch

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel and protect against cavities. It is an essential part of pediatric dental care and can be applied in different ways:

Fluoride Toothpaste

Using fluoride toothpaste when brushing your baby's teeth helps protect them from decay. Be sure to use only a tiny smear of toothpaste for babies and supervise them closely.

Fluoride Varnish

At Seaside Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, Dr. Scoma may recommend applying fluoride varnish to your baby's teeth during checkups. This quick and painless procedure helps provide extra protection for teeth, especially for children who are at higher risk for cavities.

Fluoride in Drinking Water

If your local water supply contains fluoride, it can provide additional protection against tooth decay. If your water does not contain fluoride or you use bottled water, discuss fluoride supplements with Dr. Scoma to ensure your baby receives the right amount.

Conclusion

Your baby's oral health is the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. By starting dental care early, you can help prevent problems, establish healthy habits, and ensure that your child has a positive relationship with the dentist. At Seaside Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, Dr. Anthony J. Scoma and our team are dedicated to providing gentle, compassionate, and comprehensive dental care for your baby.

At Seaside Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we are committed to providing gentle, expert dental care. With two convenient locations at 875 Prospect St #202, La Jolla, CA 92037, and 10549 Scripps Poway Pkwy Suite E, San Diego, CA 92131, we make it easy to schedule an appointment that fits your family's busy lifestyle. Call us today at (858) 551-9700 for our La Jolla office or (858) 271-4200 for our San Diego location to book your next visit!