The arrival of your baby’s first tooth is a exciting milestone! It also brings many questions for new parents. When should you start brushing? What about those bottles at night? Getting it right from the start sets your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles and prevents painful problems later on.

Why Baby Teeth Matter So Much:

Those tiny teeth hold the space for the adult teeth growing underneath the gums. If a baby tooth is lost too early due to decay, it can cause the adult teeth to come in crooked. They also help your child learn to chew and speak properly. Severe decay in baby teeth (often called “Baby Bottle Decay”) is painful and can even affect your child’s overall health and growth.

The Biggest Culprit: Sugary Liquids.

Falling asleep with a bottle of milk, formula, or sugary juice is one of the most common causes of severe decay. The sugar pools around the new teeth all night, feeding bacteria. The same goes for sipping on sugary drinks from a sippy cup all day long.

Easy Self-Help Tips for New Parents:

1. Wipe, Then Brush: Even before the first tooth, gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, soft cloth after feeds. When the first tooth appears, use a tiny, rice-grain-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste on a soft baby toothbrush.
2. Bottle Best Practices: Try to avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle. If you must, make sure it has only water. Finish milk feeds before naptime.
3. First Visit by First Birthday: This is the golden rule! Bring your child for their first dental visit by their first birthday. It’s not about treatment; it’s a friendly visit where we check development and give you personalised advice to prevent problems.

The Bottom Line:

Good habits start early. A few simple steps from the beginning can prevent toothache, protect your child’s health, and save you from costly treatments down the road.

We love welcoming new families! Make your baby’s first dental appointment a positive, fear-free experience. Schedule a “Well-Baby Check” for their teeth at Kay’s Dental today.