Reno Dentists: Your Child’s Oral Care Starts Early

New mothers undoubtedly have a lot on their minds. One thing many of them probably don’t think about, at least until teething begins, is their children’s oral health. A child’s oral care is important, even before a baby is born. Your Reno dentists, Dr. Wager and Dr. Evans, explain why oral heath in early childhood is so important.

Before Birth

Most pregnant women know the importance of eating a healthy, well-balanced diet. Good nutrition is important for a child’s oral health, as well as bodily health. Though teeth won’t erupt until several months after birth, they form while a baby is still in the womb. Mothers should maintain a proper diet and take pre-natal vitamins to help her baby’s teeth develop healthily and strongly. In addition, a pregnant woman shouldn’t neglect her own oral health. An expectant mother is more prone to gum disease and should schedule an appointment with a dentist to discuss how the pregnancy will affect her mouth.

After Birth

Your baby’s oral care should start right after the very first feeding. Wipe the infant’s mouth out with a soft, damp washcloth. New parents may notice thrush, a yeast infection that commonly strikes very young children, as a white film that does not go away, but grows. If you see white patches on your child’s soft oral tissues, report to problem to Dr. Wager or Dr. Evans, or to your child’s pediatrician.

After Teething

An infant’s newly erupted teeth require brushing. Buy a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head, and gently brush every new tooth twice a day. Only use water until the baby’s first birthday, and then begin using non-fluoride toothpaste. You will need to brush your child’s teeth for the first three or more years of life, though supervision will probably be required for several years afterward. When putting a child to sleep, don’t feed him or her milk or juice.  Instead, choose water. Your child’s first dental visit should be around the first birthday.

Don’t Neglect Your Own Oral Care

Research has consistently shown to predict a child’s oral health, look at the mother’s oral health. Parents who neglect their oral hygiene are likely to also neglect the oral health of their children. Practice excellent oral health care yourself, including brushing and flossing, as well as visiting your Reno dentist for regular checkups every six months. Even if you have been inattentive to your own oral health in the past, it’s never too late to start!

Your Reno Dentists See Patients of All Ages

If you are expecting a baby or the time has arrived for your child’s first dental visit, schedule an appointment with your Reno dentists. We provide dental services for your entire family. Contact our 89502 dentist office at 775-829-7700. We are proud to serve patients in Reno, Sparks, Sun Valley, Spanish Springs, and surrounding communities.