Tips For Tiny Teeth
Answers for the top questions from parents of infants and toddlers. – Tiny Teeth
When should an infant/toddler first seek dental care?
It is recommended that all children see the dentist once their teeth start to erupt and by their first birthday. During the first visit, our goal is to establish a relationship with the patient and family. The dentist will review and offer guidance on diet, habits, oral hygiene, teething and how to prevent cavities and other dental problems. These early visits also help familiarize children and parents with the dental office and what to expect at visits moving forward.
When should you begin brushing teeth? Frequency? What are the best methods?
Parents should start brushing their children’s teeth as soon as they appear in the mouth. We recommend using a tiny smear of fluoridated toothpaste that is about the size of a grain of rice. We have solid research that shows the positive effects of this very small, safe amount of fluoride on teeth as soon as they erupt. Soft, nylon-bristled toothbrushes are best to remove plaque. Infant toothbrushes have small heads that are easier to use in a tiny mouth.
Are pacifiers and thumb sucking harmful for oral development? Should you wean at a certain age?
There are numerous benefits to non-nutritive sucking habits for young infants. Most children stop these habits on their own. However, as children get older, sucking habits on a pacifier, finger, thumb or other object can influence oral development. For instance, prolonged sucking habits can cause a variety of issues including a narrowed upper jaw, an “open bite” where the top teeth do not overlap the bottom teeth in the front when a child bites down or a “crossbite” in the back where the top back teeth are narrower than the bottom back teeth. Prolonged sucking habits can also lead to the top front teeth flaring out. Typically, we recommend trying to end these habits by age 3. In most cases, when children stop by this age, their teeth and oral structures are able to adjust and we are less likely to see long-term effects.
How should I handle teething for my baby?
Most babies begin teething somewhere around 6 months of age but there is a wide range of normal. Typically the bottom front teeth are the first to come in. It’s not unusual for your child to be irritable or fussy when new teeth erupt. Additionally, you might notice excess saliva or drooling. Cold temperatures can help ease pain so you can give your baby a clean teething ring that has been chilled in the refrigerator or even a cold, wet, clean washcloth to chew on. You can also rub your child’s gums with a clean finger. Avoid numbing gels for teething as they can be dangerous if too much is used.