‘Tis the season for happy smiles!

Here are some helpful guidelines and commonly asked questions and answers about your baby’s dental health, so you can give them the start to a great smile!

Q: When should I start cleaning my baby’s teeth and gums?

A: Prepare baby for brushing by daily cleaning the mouth, gums, and tongue with gauze or a washcloth starting at birth! Massaging the gums with an Infa-Dent finger brush daily (maybe tie it in with the bath time routine) just prior to the eruption of the first primary tooth will help alleviate teething pain. By starting at birth with these routines, it will help stimulate the oral muscles and desensitize them so that when the first tooth does erupt, they are familiar with daily dental care!

Q: At what age should my baby begin fluoride supplements?

A: Before age 3, fluoridated water can be used for formulas, cereals and drinking water. At age 3 fluoride supplements can begin IF there are NO other sources of fluoride from the water so be sure to check with your local water company.

Q: How often should I brush my child’s teeth and gums?

A: We recommend a regular routine of removing all plaque and residue from the teeth and gums twice daily. It should be done in the morning and at night! The last thing that goes in your child’s mouth at night should be the toothbrush and floss!

Q: Is it advisable to allow “at-will” nursing or a bottle during the night?

A: Any nutrient solution allowed to remain in contact with the teeth for prolonged periods will increase the risk of tooth decay, especially in a young child. If your child needs the comfort of a bottle or sucking to get to sleep, offer a pacifier or a bottle with water only!

Q: At what age should I bring my child to the dentist?

A: Children should begin regular visits to our office when the first tooth erupts or 6 months afterwards. It should be with a board certified pediatric dentist, like Dr. Brea and Dr. Katheria at Great Smiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics. We are the pediatricians of dentistry and have extra training to evaluate your child’s oral growth and development and ensure they have a lifetime of good oral health and a great dental experience!

Q: Any other tidbits?

A: Know that signs of a healthy mouth include pink gums, white teeth, and no mouth sores. Know that good oral hygiene is especially important for babies with special needs!

Dr. Brea welcomes new patients into her combined pediatric dentistry and orthodontic practice. With locations in both Solana Beach and Carlsbad, the offices are fun destinations for kids to visit despite the serious focus on dental health. First visits for children under two years are complimentary at Great Smiles Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics.