Teething Tips for New Parents: Navigating the Journey with Your Baby

by Miranda Booher | Aug 30, 2023 | Children's Oral Health

Welcoming a new addition to the family is a moment of pure joy for parents, but as your little one grows, new milestones and challenges arise. One such milestone that often comes with its fair share of excitement and anxiety is your baby’s teething journey. Teething marks a significant developmental stage in your child’s life as those first tiny teeth start to emerge, but it can also be accompanied by discomfort and sleepless nights.

In this article, we will provide you with essential tips and valuable information to help you confidently navigate this teething phase. From recognizing the signs of teething to offering soothing remedies and addressing potential concerns, we aim to empower you to provide the best possible care for your teething baby.

Recognizing the Signs of Teething

Babies usually start teething around 6 months old. Some babies show signs of their first tooth at four months years old and others don’t show any signs until after 12 months old. There are also very rare cases of babies being born with their first teeth but most babies will develop a complete milk teeth denture by the time they are three years old.

As your baby’s teeth begin to push through the gums, they may exhibit certain signs that indicate teething is underway. These can include increased drooling, irritability, chewing on objects, swollen or tender gums, disrupted sleep patterns, touching their face constantly, pulling on their ear, a slight increase in body temperature, a rash of the face, flush on the cheek on the side of the face where the tooth is coming out. Understanding these signs can help you differentiate between teething discomfort and other possible causes, enabling you to provide the appropriate support.

If you are still breastfeeding your baby when they start this process, try to offer them a chewing toy sometime before their feeding time and you can always use your finger before feeding to check if they are in the mood of latching or chewing.

Soothing Techniques and Remedies

There are various safe and effective methods to alleviate your baby’s teething discomfort. One popular approach is providing a clean and chilled teething ring or a damp washcloth for them to gnaw on. The gentle pressure and coolness can help soothe sore gums. Additionally, using your clean finger to massage your baby’s gums can provide temporary relief. It’s important to avoid using teething gels that contain benzocaine or other numbing agents, as they can be harmful to infants.

Every baby is different, so what might work for your friend’s baby might not always work in the same way for your baby and that is ok. Some other ideas to try are:

• Try to put a pacifier or baby ring in the fridge, cold yet not frozen.
• You can give them a sippy cup with cool water, only if the baby is older than 6 months.
• You can cut fruit and veggies, like melon for your baby to chew on.
• Give your baby a cool metal spoon for them to suck on.
• A warm bath can help your child relax and manage the uneasiness in a better way.
• If the discomfort continues, and you get the green light from their pediatrician, you can provide your child with baby acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

If all fails, remember that during this period of changes and restlessness for your baby, there is no better remedy than receiving your love and attention, so don’t be shy on turn on the snuggles and cuddles with your child. Nothing is more healing and reassuring as love, especially coming from their main take caregivers.

Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene

Even before the first tooth emerges, it’s crucial to establish good oral hygiene practices; in fact, it is recommended for parents to bring their baby to the Pediatric Dentist while breastfeeding – you can read more about the benefits of doing so here. Wiping your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feeding can help remove bacteria and prevent gum irritation. Once the first tooth appears, you can start using a soft-bristled infant toothbrush with a rice grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Regular brushing, even with just one tooth, helps instill healthy habits and protects emerging teeth from decay.

If you implement games and music while you do these practices you can create a beautiful and fun family/play time for your kid, making dental care something that is part of their routine in an enjoyable way.

Common Concerns and When to Seek Professional Advice

Teething is a natural process, but it’s common for parents to have concerns along the way. One frequent worry is the timing of tooth eruption. Remember, every child is unique, and the order and pace of tooth eruption can vary. However, if your baby hasn’t shown any signs of teething by their first birthday, it’s advisable to consult a pediatric dentist. Similarly, if you notice any severe symptoms like a high fever or diarrhea, it’s essential to seek professional advice to rule out other potential causes.

If you see any signs of bleeding on your baby’s gums, we alert you to get an appointment with a pediatric dentist as soon as possible to make sure the bleeding is not a symptom of gum disease or any other dental issue.  Likewise, if your baby’s temperature continues for three days in a row or this fever is accompanied by other symptoms, like not wanting to feed or constant diarrhea, you should visit your pediatrician to make sure there is not an ear infection, or a bacterial or viral issue happening besides the teething.

By being well-informed about the teething process and armed with practical strategies, you can help ease your baby’s discomfort and make the teething journey a smoother one for both of you. Remember, patience, love, and consistent care are key during this phase. Celebrate each new tooth as a sign of growth and embrace the beautiful smile that awaits your little one at the end of this teething adventure.

The Power of Nurturing Smiles: Breastfeeding

by Miranda Booher | Jul 3, 2023 | Children's Oral Health

As parents, we understand that you want to provide your little one with the best possible start in life. Today, we delve into a topic that holds immense significance for your child’s overall development and dental health—breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural way to nourish and bond with your baby. In this article, we’ll explore the remarkable connection between breastfeeding and dentistry, highlighting its numerous advantages beyond nutrition alone.

Why It’s Recommended

Breastfeeding offers a multitude of benefits for your child’s teeth, contributing to their overall dental health and well-being. Here are a few significant advantages:

• Proper Jaw and Dental Development: The act of breastfeeding involves the natural sucking motion that stimulates the development of your baby’s oral muscles, tongue, and jaw. This exercise helps in aligning the teeth and promotes the proper growth and positioning of the jawbones. The gentle pressure exerted during breastfeeding also aids in the development of a well-formed palate, which can contribute to better overall dental alignment as your child grows.
• Reduced Risk of Malocclusion: Malocclusion refers to misalignment or improper positioning of the teeth, such as crowded or crooked teeth.
• Decreased Risk of Tooth Decay: Breast milk is the perfect food for your baby, offering a unique blend of nutrients and antibodies that help protect against infections and diseases. When your child breastfeeds, the milk helps maintain a balanced oral environment by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria that can lead to tooth decay.

The Nutrition Factor

Here are some key nutritional components found in breast milk that have a positive impact on your child’s dental care:

• Calcium: This is crucial for the development of strong teeth and bones. Calcium helps in the mineralization of tooth enamel, the protective outer layer of teeth, making them more resistant to decay and cavities.
• Phosphorus: Phosphorus works synergistically with calcium to strengthen tooth enamel, contributing to the formation of healthy and durable teeth.
• Immunoglobulins: Breast milk contains various immunoglobulins, such as secretory IgA, which help protect against infections and promote a healthy oral environment. These antibodies can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, reducing the risk of dental caries and gum disease.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Breast milk is a natural source of vitamins and minerals essential for your child’s overall health, including vitamins A, C, and D. These vitamins are crucial for the development and maintenance of healthy gums and teeth.
• Optimal Nutrition: Breast milk is tailored specifically to meet your baby’s nutritional needs. Its composition adapts as your child grows, providing the appropriate balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and other nutrients. This optimal nutrition supports the development of strong and healthy teeth, ensuring they have the necessary building blocks for proper growth and maintenance.

It’s important to note that breastfeeding alone may not provide all the required nutrients for your child’s dental care in the long term. As your child transitions to solid foods, it’s essential to introduce a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods.

No Space for Guilt

Breastfeeding is great, however, it’s important to remember that there are various reasons why breastfeeding may not be possible for every parent, and it doesn’t diminish your ability to be a loving and nurturing caregiver. Here are some strategies to help overcome guilt in such situations:

• Educate Yourself: Gain a deeper understanding of the reasons why breastfeeding may not be feasible for you. You can even read this article about the reasons why not to. Knowing the factors that influence your decision can help alleviate guilt by acknowledging that you’re making the best choice for you and your baby’s unique situation.
• Seek Support: Surround yourself with a supportive network of family, friends, and healthcare professionals who understand and respect your decision.
• Focus on Bonding: Remember that nurturing and bonding with your child go beyond breastfeeding. There are numerous ways to establish a strong emotional connection and provide love and care. Skin-to-skin contact, eye contact, talking, cuddling, and responding to your baby’s needs are all vital elements in fostering a deep and loving bond.
• Prioritize Self-Care: Practice self-compassion, engage in activities that bring you joy, seek emotional support when needed, and prioritize self-care to maintain a positive mindset.
• Remind Yourself of Your Love: Reflect on the love and care you provide for your child in various other aspects of their life. Your role as a parent extends far beyond breastfeeding, and your commitment to their well-being, happiness, and growth is what truly matters.

You can also check out our article about How Utah Pediatric Dentists Can Help with Breastfeeding Struggles

When Breastfeeding is Not an Option

Here are some important considerations:

• Choose a Suitable Formula: Consult with your pediatrician to select a suitable formula that meets your baby’s nutritional needs. Look for formulas that are designed for infants and contain essential nutrients such as calcium and phosphorus, which are important for dental development.
• Limit Sugary Drinks: Instead, encourage your child to drink water, which is not only hydrating but also beneficial for oral health.
• Introduce a Balanced Diet: Gradually introduce a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods. Focus on incorporating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products. These food groups provide essential vitamins and minerals necessary for dental health.
• Limit Sugary and Sticky Foods: Minimize the consumption of sugary and sticky foods, such as candies, cookies, and dried fruits. These foods can cling to the teeth, increasing the risk of cavities.
• Promote Regular Oral Hygiene: Establish good oral hygiene habits early on. Clean your child’s gums with a damp cloth before their first tooth erupts, and once teeth appear, start brushing them gently with an age-appropriate toothbrush and a small smear of fluoride toothpaste.

Remember, every parent faces unique challenges, and what matters most is the love, care, and nurturing environment you create for your child. In addition to nutrition, maintaining good oral hygiene practices, regular dental visits, and instilling positive dental habits play a crucial role in your child’s dental health.

How To Avoid A Yellow Smile On My Kids

by Miranda Booher | May 8, 2023 | Children's Oral Health

Reasons Why a Smile Goes Yellow

• Poor oral hygiene: When kids don’t brush and floss regularly, food particles and bacteria can build up on their teeth, causing them to stain and discolor.
• Diet: Some foods and drinks, such as sugary snacks, sodas, and fruit juices, can stain the teeth and cause yellowing over time.
• Genetics: Some children may be more prone to yellow teeth due to genetics. In some cases, the enamel on the teeth may be thinner or naturally more yellow, which can make the teeth appear yellow even with good oral hygiene habits.
• Certain medications: Some medications such as antihistamines and other types of antibiotics can be known for causing tooth discoloration as some of their side effects.
• Supplements: Fluorosis occurs when a child ingests too much fluoride during the development of their teeth, leading to white or brown stains or streaks on the teeth. Iron could also cause teeth to go gray.
• Injury:  If your child injures their teeth, blood vessels may break and make teeth appear yellow, brown, gray, or black. After these types of injuries, the vessels within the teeth can burst and this can damage the tooth coating itself.

Recommendations to Maintain a White Smile

• Encourage good oral hygiene: Make sure your child brushes their teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time, using fluoride toothpaste. Flossing to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth is a practice that at least needs to happen every night before bed.
• Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks: Encourage your child to eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables.
• Drink water: Water helps to rinse away food particles and bacteria from the teeth and can also help neutralize acid in the mouth.
• Visit the dentist regularly: Your child should visit the dentist for regular checkups and cleaning as part of the maintenance of their overall health.
• Consider dental sealants: Dental sealants are a protective coating that can be applied to the back teeth to help prevent decay and staining.
• Avoid tobacco: Tobacco use can stain teeth and increase the risk of gum disease and other dental problems. Encourage your child to avoid tobacco products.
• Monitor fluoride intake: While fluoride is essential for dental health, too much can cause fluorosis, which can lead to yellow or brown stains on the teeth. Make sure your child is using fluoride toothpaste and drinking fluoridated water, but don’t give them fluoride supplements unless recommended by a dentist.

What are Some Natural Solutions?

• Lemon and baking soda: To avoid plaque gathering on the tooth’s surface or remove some food stains, you might try a paste made of lemon juice and baking soda. Once per week, mix the baking soda with a few drops of lemon juice and have your child brush their teeth with them. Leave on for a couple of minutes before brushing again, and finalize rinsing well. This is a safe and natural method but since the lemon is acidic we don’t suggest using it too frequently.
• Brush with baking soda: Baking soda has natural whitening properties and can help remove surface stains from teeth. Mix a small amount of baking soda with your toothpaste and brush as usual.
• Drink water: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help rinse away food particles and bacteria from your teeth and neutralize the acid in your mouth.
• Chew sugar-free gum: Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can help stimulate saliva production, which helps to rinse away food particles and bacteria from your teeth.