Are you aware that the growth of your baby’s teeth begins in the embryo? So you must read the following to learn more.
A balanced diet and use of pre-natal vitamins help to develop baby’s teeth. Expectant mothers must eat healthy and nutritious foods. Make sure to eat pre-natal vitamins, consume the recommended calcium and make sure your body gets enough protein.
During pregnancy, visit your dentist regularly because gingivitis occurs as a woman’s hormone levels rises. Women with periodontal disease have an increased risk of pre-term births and low-birth babies. A pre-term low-birth weight (PLBW) baby is defined as one born before the 37th week of gestation weighing less than five pounds or six pounds. PLBW results in morbidity and mortality of infants.
Regular checkups at the dentist are must during pregnancy. This is because pregnancy causes hormonal changes which increase the risk of developing gum disease as mentioned above. The second trimester is considered the best time to receive routine care.
Gently cleanse the inside of the mouth using a cloth after every feeding.
Ease the teething pain by gently massaging the gums. A cool teething ring or a teething biscuit can be offered to the child under supervision because of the potential choking hazard. Consult doctor or dentist before using over- the- counter pain reducers or desensitizing gel.
Avoid putting baby to sleep with a bottle, sip-cup or while breastfeeding.
Avoid sharing items such as spoons, pacifiers, toothbrushes and toys as this spreads cavity-causing germs from mother to baby and between babies themselves.
Take your child to a pedodontist for checkups, because early childhood caries may develop as soon as teeth erupt or 12 months of age.
Dentist needs to examine teeth, check for decay, make sure that teeth are erupting in the right order, screen the oral tissues for diseases and determine proper jaw development. Seek advise about the problems that can arise with prolonged sucking behaviour pattern.
Brush teeth twice a day after the first tooth erupts using a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for babies with water or a very small amount of non-fluoridated toothpaste. Toothpaste containing fluorides can be used after your child learns to spit.
Serve as a good role model by practicing good oral health care habits yourself.
Check your child's mouth for the signs of periodontal disease, including bleeding gums, swollen and bright red gums, gums that are receding away from the teeth and bad breath.
Your child is precious. A healthy smile, good breath and strong teeth contribute to a child’s personality, as well as confidence and self-esteem.
