Toothless babies are super cute, but at Dental Image Therapy Centres, we think they become even more adorable as their teeth grow. New life and new teeth are precious, but how do parents and guardians keep their baby's teeth healthy? What do they need to know about baby teeth in general?

Your baby’s primary teeth are important. At both of our Winnipeg dental clinics, we provide professional care for your children and are available to answer any questions, provide tips and more on how to take care of your child’s teeth at home.  

Caring For Your Baby’s Teeth

Good oral hygiene for kids starts with their gums, before teething. Before any teeth emerge, gently rub their gums with a damp cotton gauze or a wet washcloth. Doing this can stimulate the gums and get you both in the habit of daily oral cleaning (which will help with brushing teeth when the time comes). Keep a damp cloth available if you find your child begins drooling to prevent irritation or a rash. 

To help a teething baby, you can also give them teething rings that have been chilled in the fridge. Another little gadget is a mesh pouch (also known as a baby fruit feeder or mesh feeder) that holds frozen fruit for your baby to suck on. These little tricks and treats feel good against their gums and provide a numbing effect. If that does not work, visit a pediatrician for children’s infant-strength acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Want to know more tips and tricks for soothing your teething baby? Check out this blog post.

When Do Baby Teeth Come Out? 

Baby teeth usually erupt around six months of age. Once teeth begin to come in, your child might get fussy or sleepy because of soreness related to teething. Your baby will have fewer teeth than you, and if you’re wondering why, read this previous Ask A Dentist blog post.

When they start getting their teeth in, it’s time to start brushing. Toddlers and babies have tiny mouths, so make sure you get a toothbrush designed specifically for them. And while kids' toothpaste generally doesn’t contain fluoride, it’s a good idea to talk to your dentist about the importance of fluoride. Fluoride drops may be necessary as they help strengthen your baby’s tooth enamel.

Do Baby Teeth Matter?

Protecting your baby’s teeth is very important for their health and development. They help your child chew, speak and smile. They also hold jaw space for permanent teeth growing under the gums. If lost too early, the permanent teeth can drift and make it difficult for other adult teeth to fit when they come in. This shifting and drifting can make their teeth crooked or crowded. Starting infants off with good oral care can help protect their teeth for the future.

Dental Image Therapy Centres have offered pediatric dentistry for years at our Winnipeg locations at St. Vital Centre and Garden City Shopping Centre. To prevent dental problems, bring your child to one of our dental clinics when their first tooth appears or no later than their first birthday. Bringing them to the dentist frequently and regularly gets rid of any dental fears (we want you and your family to be comfortable when visiting us!). 

We’re happy to answer any questions you have about taking care of your child’s teeth and discuss measures to protect your child’s teeth and gums, so they have a healthy, bright and confident smile as they grow.