Teething Basics

A teething baby has a lot to teach a new parent. If you read our previous blog on teething, there was just too much information to include everything. Besides, teething can take place literally over 2-3 years, so how could you possibly cover everything in just one blog? Now, I don't know everything there is to know about teething yet, since Olivia is still cutting her teeth. What I have learned so far though, I can pass along to you.

There are several things to remember when you are dealing with a teething child. Patience is one of them. God knows, this has been difficult for me, since I have never been a patient person. I had to come to realize though, that infants are "growing" new parts they have no experience with. Most of their world is experienced through their mouth. Even before they are born, they play with their mouths bringing their hands to the mouth to practice sucking. After they are born, they continue that experience by putting their hands in their mouth, experiencing touch and sensations through their cheeks and tongue. Even toys can influence them in many ways through textures, sensation and temperature. No wonder a baby goes through such a traumatic experience when they are teething. Suddenly the one tool they use to experience life through is sent into a state of turmoil. Teething is painful! That's where patience comes in.

Even before baby teeth appear, it's important to keep an infant's mouth clean. Take a damp, clean wash cloth and gently rub the inside of the baby's gums to remove food debris. This sometimes alleviates teething pain, but also ensures the gums are clean. Once the teeth appear, it's even more important to ensure you are cleaning your baby's mouth regularly. It's recommended to do it after each feeding, but twice daily is also sufficient according to most experts. Teeth carry bacteria, even "baby" teeth. As soon as the teeth appear, they are susceptible to tooth decay and cavities. Hence the reason that dental hygiene is important, even for infants. Depending on how old your baby is when they start to cut teeth, you may determine that using a soft bristled brush is good for their teeth. Olivia was older when she finally starting getting teeth, so using a soft bristled brush was perfect for her. Plus it made it easy for us to introduce the concept of her brushing her own teeth.

When your baby is ready to start brushing their own teeth, you want to choose a brush that is easy for them to grasp. Each day give them 2-3 to choose from. This will enable you to determine which one works best for them. Toothpaste is not necessary during the younger ages, but as they get older baby tooth cleaner can be used. These are usually fluoride free and are safe to be swallowed. Of course, never use large amounts. Monitor the amount that is put on their toothbrush. Usually a pee size amount will do.

Some children won't allow their parents to brush their teeth right away. Do not let that deter you. It took several attempts before Olivia was comfortable with me "brushing" her teeth. The actual brushing of a baby's teeth only needs to last about 5 seconds to remove the debris and bacteria when teeth first appear. Reward your child when they allow you to brush their teeth. This will also set a positive tone for when they start brushing their own teeth.

After your child's first tooth appears, its time to start thinking about a pediatric dentist. You should visit the dentist at least 6 months after the appearance of the first tooth. Some experts suggest that even if your child does not have teeth by the age of 1, you should bring them to the dentist for a check up to ensure there are no problems.

Flossing needs to start when your child has gotten all their baby teeth-usually between 3-4 years old. There are plenty items out there to make flossing baby teeth easier on us parents. Your dentist can recommend them and even give you samples of flossers to try.

Remember that diet will play a vital role in how your baby's teeth develop. Calcium along with fruits and vegetables are important for strong teeth. Since your baby will be using a fluoride free teeth cleaner, it would be wise to look into fluoride supplements to ensure your baby gets the proper amount of fluoride, especially if they will not be drinking tap water. Speak to your pediatrician about supplements or bottled water that has been fortified with fluoride.

Teething is a milestone in every child's life. What you do now will set the tone for your child's dental hygiene for years to come. Check out these links for more information and some fun facts:

Mouth Play

Opening the Sensory Doorway

The History of Toothbrushes