Infant Teething And Dental Care

Introduction

Dental hygiene begins as soon as your child consumes food products of any kind. In the early stages of development, children experience the teething process. Parents should think of creative ways to ease this pain and maintain a commitment to their child's life-long dental care.

Dental Health

Parents must establish beneficial dental hygiene practices with their children as early as possible. Dental care is an invaluable preventative care measure that will lead to years of positive dental health.

Parental Care

Prior to the first year of age, parents assume sole responsibility for infant dental hygiene. Parents should wipe a soft, damp washcloth over an infant's gums after feeding their child. This reduces levels of oral bacteria that lead to infection. As teeth emerge, parents may choose to use an infant toothbrush. Parents should only brush with water, as toothpaste may be toxic to a young child.

Children’s Dental Care

The American Dental Association recommends that children receive formal care after the first birthday. By age one, most youth display six to eight teeth. At that point, dental visits educate parents and children on appropriate dental hygiene practices. When two teeth begin to touch, the dentist will introduce flossing as a vital element of quality dental care.

Infant Teeth

Although some children are born with a tooth or numerous teeth showing, most infant teeth do not emerge from the gum line prior to 4-15 months. By a child's first birthday, parents should see up to six teeth. These should be incisors. All teeth should appear by two years of age.

Teething

Teething is the process by which teeth become visible. Children may mimic teething actions several months prior to tooth emergence. Teething may seem as hard on the parent as it is on the child because when children teethe, they note a sense of discomfort.

Teething discomfort varies among children. Some infants experience little pain while other babies demonstrate periods of irritability. Irritation and pain may cause your infant to cry a lot. However, while teething may cause discomfort, it does not cause extreme pain, fever, diarrhea or episodic afflictions. If these conditions are noted for an extended period, contact your doctor immediately.

Easing Discomfort

When your child teethes, you may notice increased drool and chewing motions. To ease discomfort, some infants enjoy sucking on a pacifier. An alternate way to soothe pain is to have a child suck on a frozen plastic-wrapped Popsicle. The cold sensation will temporarily numb the pain, infants will have an object to chew on, and there is virtually no mess because the contents of the container are sealed in plastic. If you choose this method, do so cautiously. Do not leave your infant unattended.

Levels of Dental Care

At two years of age, you should introduce your child to self-maintenance. Have your child imitate your brushing motions. Youth may use small amounts of toothpaste and should brush their teeth after each meal.

Tooth Development

Usually, teeth will not develop cavities until three or more years of age. However, if you observe areas of concern, do make a dental appointment.

After 3 years of age, visit the dentist twice a year for an examination of tooth surfaces and structures. Children will gain permanent teeth after 5 years of age. After the wisdom teeth emerge in the late teens, there will be 32 permanent teeth.

Summary

Dental care is a lifetime commitment that begins at birth. Parents should teach their children good dental hygiene habits as early as possible. After six months of age, when the teething process commences, children should receive formal checkups from a dentist. Parents should consult with med ical professionals if problems emerge between medical visits.

source from http://www.babycarehelp.com

How To Care For Your Baby's Gums And Emerging Teeth

Should I start cleaning my baby's gums even before his teeth come in?

Yes. Even before your baby sports his first tooth, it's a good idea to get into the habit of wiping his gums with gauze or a soft wet washcloth during bath time. You don't need to use any toothpaste yet. Simply wrap the cloth or gauze around your index finger and rub it gently over the gums.

Bacteria in the mouth usually can't harm the gums before the teeth emerge, but it can be hard to tell when the teeth are starting to push through, so you'll want to start early. Getting your baby used to having his mouth cleaned as part of his daily routine should make it easier to transition into toothbrushing later on.

What's the best way to brush my baby's teeth after they start coming in?
As your child's teeth start to appear (generally around 6 months), look for a baby toothbrush with a small bristle head and larger grip suitable for your hand. (If your child is healthy and still hasn't sprouted his first tooth by the end of his first year, don't worry — some children don't start getting them until 15 to 18 months.)

As long as you're cleaning your child's teeth regularly, you don't need to use any toothpaste yet. Just brush the teeth gently on both the outside and inside surfaces twice a day. Brush his tongue as well (if he'll let you) to dislodge the bacteria that can cause bad breath. One quick swipe is enough. Replace the toothbrush as soon as the bristles start to look worn or splayed out.

When does my baby need fluoride and how can I tell if he's getting the right amount?
Your baby's developing teeth can benefit from a little fluoride. This mineral helps prevent tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel and making it more resistant to acids and harmful bacteria. Most municipal water supplies are fortified with fluoride (you can call your local water authority to find out about yours). Bottled water suppliers can also tell you about the fluoride content of their water.

If you get your water from a well, you might consider buying a test kit from your local health department, a hardware store, or a pharmacy. If the results show a fluoride content of less than .3 parts per million, ask your child's doctor whether you should give your child a fluoride supplement (the amount recommended for children under 3 is .25 milligrams per day). She can prescribe fluoride in the form of drops that you can add to your baby's bottle or cereal once a day. The American Academy of Pediatrics doesn't recommend fluoride supplements for babies under 6 months old.

If you live in an area with fluoridated water, your child will get no fluoride from your breast milk, but he will get it from the water you use to make his formula. Bottled water and fruit juices may contain fluoride, although the amount is rarely listed on the label.

A little fluoride is a good thing for your baby's teeth, but too much of it can lead to a condition called fluorosis, which in mild cases causes white spots to show up on your child's adult teeth. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends waiting until your child is 2 to use fluoridated toothpaste, and even then you should let him use only a tiny (pea-sized) amount each time. This is because young children tend to swallow their toothpaste rather than spit it out and swallowing too much toothpaste over time can lead to fluorosis.

When should I start taking my child to the dentist?
The timing of the first dental visit is controversial.

The AAP suggests that you take your child to see a dentist at age 3, unless his doctor sees a problem that needs earlier attention, or she believes that your baby is at risk for developing dental problems. (Risk factors include a family history of cavities and poor dental health while you were pregnant.) If the doctor does think that your baby is at risk, she'll refer you to a dentist six months after your child's first tooth erupts, or by 1 year of age, whichever comes first. During your baby's regular visits to the doctor, she should check to see that his teeth are coming in normally. The doctor should also ask about diet and oral hygiene, and she may make fluoride recommendations.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association, however, recommend that you bring your baby to see a dentist between 6 and 12 months of age. They note that over the last 30 years in the United States, tooth decay in baby teeth has not declined like it has in permanent teeth, and that about 40 percent of children have tooth decay by age 5. An early dental exam might address a problem that your baby's doctor might miss or couldn't diagnose. And establishing a relationship with a dentist early on, the groups say, provides families with a source for important dental information as well as routine and emergency dental care.

source from http://www.babycenter.com

Parents Center: Tooth Care (age 5 to 8)

What's the best way for my child to brush her teeth?

Have her use a soft nylon-bristle child's toothbrush. Keep in mind that if your child is younger than school age she may swallow toothpaste, so she should only use a pea-sized amount. Have her gently brush the teeth on both the outside and inside surfaces twice a day. Try to encourage her to brush her tongue as well, to dislodge the bacteria that can cause bad breath. Replace the toothbrush as soon as the bristles start to look worn or splayed out.

When is my child ready to start brushing her own teeth?
As soon as she is willing and able, it's a good idea to let her try to brush her own teeth. Kids usually get the hang of it by school age. Until she does, brush your teeth while she's doing hers, and then "check" each other's teeth to see if they're clean. If her teeth sparkle and reflect light, she's done a good job. If not, tell her you think she "missed a spot" and finish the job for her. Most children do not have the coordination to brush their teeth adequately until they have mastered using a knife and fork.

What should I do if my child won't brush?
If your child fusses every time it's time to brush, it might help to buy her a toothbrush or paste with a special cartoon character on it. According to Liz Birka White, a mother of three in Diablo, California, this worked well for all of her children: "Adam, my firstborn, really hated brushing until I bought him an Elmo toothbrush. From that day on, he couldn't get enough. It was just the ticket I needed to interest him in brushing." You can also let your child have several brushes in different colors so that she can choose the one she wants when it's time to brush.

When does my child need fluoride and how can I tell if she's getting the right amount?
Developing teeth can certainly benefit from a little fluoride. This mineral prevents tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel and making it more resistant to acids and harmful bacteria. Most municipal water supplies are fortified with fluoride. (Call your local water authority or ask your dentist about yours.) If it isn't, or if you get your water from a well, consider buying a test kit from a hardware store to determine the fluoride level in your water supply. If it's less than .3 parts per million, ask your pediatrician whether you should give your child a supplement. He can prescribe a fluoride supplement in the form of drops or chewable tablets. The recommended dosage per day is .25 milligrams for children under 3, .5 mg for kids 3 to 6, and 1 mg for kids over 6.

A little fluoride is a good thing for your child's teeth, but swallowing too much of it over time can lead to a condition called fluorosis that can cause white spots to show up on her adult teeth. If you live in an area with fluoridated water, your child is most likely getting plenty of fluoride. Bottled water and fruit juices may also contain fluoride, although the amount is rarely listed on the label.

When should I start taking my child to the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatrics and most pediatric dentists say it's a good idea to bring your child to a dentist around the time she turns 1. If you haven't yet taken your child to the dentist, make an appointment soon, especially if you notice any signs of tooth decay such as mouth pain, particularly while eating.

source from http://parentcenter.babycenter.com

Parents Center: Tooth Care (age 2 to 4)

What's the best way to brush my child's teeth?
While your child's early teeth are still coming in, you can clean them with a wet washcloth or a piece of gauze. By the time her back molars have come in (around 18 months), you can switch to a soft nylon-bristle child's toothbrush. Using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste, gently brush the teeth on both the outside and inside surfaces twice a day. Brush her tongue as well (if she'll let you) to dislodge the bacteria that can cause bad breath. Replace the toothbrush as soon as the bristles start to look worn or splayed out.

When should I let my child start brushing her own teeth?
As soon as she is willing and able, it's a good idea to let her try to brush her own teeth, even though she probably won't be able to do a good job of it until she's about school age. Brush your teeth while she's doing hers, and then "check" each other's teeth to see if they're clean. If her teeth sparkle and reflect light, she's done a good job. If not, tell her you think she "missed a spot" and finish the job for her. Most children do not have the coordination to brush their teeth adequately until they have mastered using a knife and fork.

What should I do if my child won't brush?
If your child fusses every time it's time to brush, it might help to buy her a toothbrush or paste with a special cartoon character on it. According to Liz Birka White, a mother of three in Diablo, California, this worked well for all of her children: "Adam, my firstborn, really hated brushing until I bought him an Elmo toothbrush. From that day on, he couldn't get enough. It was just the ticket I needed to interest him in brushing." You can also let your child have several brushes in different colors so that she can choose the one she wants when it's time to brush.

When does my child need fluoride and how can I tell if she's getting the right amount?
Developing teeth can certainly benefit from a little fluoride. This mineral prevents tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel and making it more resistant to acids and harmful bacteria. Most municipal water supplies are fortified with fluoride. (Call your local water authority or ask your dentist about yours.) If it isn't, or if you get your water from a well, consider buying a test kit from a hardware store to determine the fluoride level in your water supply. If it's less than .3 parts per million, ask your pediatrician whether you should give your child a supplement (the amount recommended for children under 3 is .25 milligrams per day). He can prescribe a fluoride supplement in the form of drops or chewable tablets.

A little fluoride is a good thing for your child's teeth, but swallowing too much of it over time can lead to a condition called fluorosis that can cause white spots to show up on her adult teeth. If you live in an area with fluoridated water, your child is most likely getting plenty of fluoride. Bottled water and fruit juices may also contain fluoride, although the amount is rarely listed on the label. If your child is using a fluoridated toothpaste, you should let her use only a pea-sized drop each time. This is because young children tend to swallow their toothpaste rather than spit it out. Swallowing too much toothpaste over time can lead to fluorosis.

When should I start taking my child to the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatrics and most pediatric dentists say it's a good idea to bring your child to a dentist around the time she turns 1. If you haven't yet taken her for a dental checkup, consider making an appointment soon, especially if you notice any signs of tooth decay such mouth pain, particularly while eating.

source from http://parentcenter.babycenter.com

Parents Center: Tooth Care for Toddlers (12 to 24 mo.)

What's the best way to brush my child's teeth?
While your child's early teeth are still coming in, you can clean them with a wet washcloth or a piece of gauze. By the time his back molars have come in (around 18 months), you can switch to a soft nylon-bristle child's toothbrush. Using plain water, gently brush the teeth on both the outside and inside surfaces twice a day. Brush his tongue as well (if he'll let you) to dislodge the bacteria that can cause bad breath. Replace the toothbrush as soon as the bristles start to look worn or splayed out.

When should I let my toddler start brushing his own teeth?
As soon as he is willing and able, it's a good idea to let him try to brush his own teeth, even though he probably won't be able to do a good job of it until he's about school age. Brush your teeth while he's doing his, and then "check" each other's teeth to see if they're clean. If his teeth sparkle and reflect light, he's done a good job. If not, tell him you think he "missed a spot" and finish the job for him.

What should I do if my child won't brush?
If your child fusses every time it's time to brush, it might help to buy him a toothbrush with a special cartoon character on it. According to Liz Birka White, a mother of three in Diablo, California, this worked well for all of her children: "Adam, my firstborn, really hated brushing until I bought him an Elmo toothbrush. From that day on, he couldn't get enough. It was just the ticket I needed to interest him in brushing." You can also let your child have several brushes in different colors so that he can choose the one he wants when it's time to brush.

For a variety of other solutions, read these suggestions from parents whose children balk at brushing.

When does my child need fluoride and how can I tell if he's getting the right amount?
Developing teeth can certainly benefit from a little fluoride. This mineral prevents tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel and making it more resistant to acids and harmful bacteria. Most municipal water supplies are fortified with fluoride. (Call your local water authority or ask your dentist about yours.) If it isn't, or if you get your water from a well, consider buying a test kit from a hardware store to determine the fluoride level in your water supply. If it's less than .3 parts per million, ask your pediatrician whether you should give your child a supplement (the amount recommended for children under 3 is .25 milligrams per day). She can prescribe a fluoride supplement in the form of drops or chewable tablets.

A little fluoride is a good thing for your child's teeth, but swallowing too much of it over time can lead to a condition called fluorosis that can cause white spots to show up on his adult teeth. If you live in an area with fluoridated water, your child is most likely getting plenty of fluoride. Bottled water and fruit juices may also contain fluoride, although the amount is rarely listed on the label. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends waiting until your child is at least 2 to use fluoridated toothpaste. And when he does graduate to toothpaste, you should let him use only a pea-sized drop each time. This is because young children tend to swallow their toothpaste rather than spit it out. Swallowing too much toothpaste over time can lead to fluorosis.

When should I start taking my child to the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatrics and most pediatric dentists say it's a good idea to bring your child to a dentist around the time he turns 1, just in case there's a problem that your family doctor missed or couldn't diagnose. If your child still hasn't sprouted his first tooth by 16 months, or if you notice tooth decay, mention it to your pediatrician, who will likely refer you to a dentist.

source from http://www.babycenter.com

Parents Center: Tooth Accidents ( age 5 to 8.)

What should I do if my child falls and hits a tooth?
Your child is bound to fall on his face once in a while as he plays and tests his physical prowess. Occasionally he may hit a tooth.

First you'll want to make sure that he has no other injuries (to his face or head, for example) that need emergency treatment. If he does, call 911.

If his gums are bleeding, apply pressure with a piece of wet gauze for few minutes (or until the bleeding stops). A frozen juice pop can limit the swelling and has the added benefit of taking your child's mind off the pain. Over the next week, watch for signs of infection, such as fever or swelling and tenderness, and call the doctor or dentist immediately if you see anything unusual with your child's gums or teeth.

Should I take my child to the dentist if he hits a tooth?
If your child's teeth and gums look just fine and he doesn't seem to be in any pain, he should be okay without a dental check. If a tooth seems out of place, though, you'll want to have a dentist look at it to evaluate whether it needs to be repositioned.

If a tooth is badly chipped, take your child to the dentist right away. Bring the piece of tooth along if you can find it. (You may also want to apply a cold compress to your child's mouth to prevent swelling.) Even if the chip is small and it doesn't seem to be bothering your child, you'll want to schedule an appointment with a dentist. She can evaluate whether there are underlying cracks or other damage you can't see. She can also repair the tooth by filing it or by patching it with bonding material.

What should I do if my child knocks out one of his teeth?
If he knocks out a baby tooth, don't worry — a permanent tooth will eventually grow in its place. Baby teeth are important because they help your child eat and speak and because they hold a spot in your child's mouth for his permanent teeth to come in properly. See the dentist to make sure that no underlying teeth were damaged and that the permanent tooth will have enough space to grow in properly.

If your child loses a permanent tooth, find the tooth if you can and rinse it gently in water. (Don't scrub it or you may remove important tissue fragments and roots.) If possible, insert it back in your child's tooth socket and hold it there. Then go to the dentist's office. (If it's after hours, call the dentist's emergency number to find out where to go for emergency dental treatment.) If you can't get the tooth back in your child's mouth, put it in milk and take it with you. Not sure if it's a baby tooth or a permanent tooth? Proceed as if it's a permanent tooth, just to be on the safe side.

Will the dentist be able to put the knocked-out tooth back in?
The quicker you get to the dentist (hopefully less than 30 minutes), the better the chances. The dentist will clean your child's mouth and try to put the tooth back in place. She may also put a splint on the tooth to keep it in position until the root takes hold. During this time, your child may need to be on a soft diet, at least initially, and he may need to take an antibiotic. The dentist will take another look at the tooth in a week or so to see if the splint can come off, and she'll continue to evaluate the tooth periodically. If the root doesn't take hold, sometimes a special kind of root canal can help.

How can I keep my child from hurting his teeth?
You can't completely prevent accidents, but you can help a lot by taking these precautions:

• Childproof your home.

• Make sure that your child wears a mouth guard when he plays contact sports.

• Teach your child to use caution when drinking from water fountains — it's easy to bump a tooth on the metal water jet.

• Teach your child to play safely onoutdoor equipment, giving other children plenty of room. Tell him not to stand behind swings, for example, and not to pass other children on climbing equipment or water slides (two-thirds of water-slide injuries result in oral trauma).

• Always make sure your child is buckled up properly in his booster seat or seat belt.

• If your child has front teeth that protrude, have them evaluated by your dentist or an orthodontist. Teeth that protrude are more vulnerable than those that don't.

• Teach your child not to run with hard objects (like a lollipop or a toothbrush) in his mouth.

source from http://parentcenter.babycenter.com

Parents Center: Tooth Accidents ( age 2 to 4 .)

What should I do if my preschooler falls and hits a tooth?
Your active preschooler is bound to fall on his face once in a while as he plays and tests his physical prowess. Occasionally he may hit a tooth.

First you'll want to make sure that he has no other injuries (to his face or head, for example) that need emergency treatment. If he does, call 911.

If his gums are bleeding, apply pressure with a piece of wet gauze for few minutes (or until the bleeding stops). A frozen juice pop can limit the swelling and has the added benefit of taking your child's mind off the pain. Call the doctor immediately if you see anything unusual with your child's gums or teeth over the next week, or if you notice any signs of infection, such as fever or swelling and tenderness.

Should I take my child to the dentist if he hits a tooth?
If your child's teeth and gums look just fine and he doesn't seem to be in any pain, he should be okay without a dental check. If a tooth seems out of place, though, you'll want to have a dentist look at it to evaluate whether it needs to be repositioned.

If a tooth is badly chipped, take your child to the dentist right away. Bring the piece of tooth along if you can find it. (You may also want to apply a cold compress to your child's mouth to prevent swelling.) Even if the chip is small and it doesn't seem to be bothering your child, you'll want to schedule an appointment with a dentist. She can evaluate whether there are underlying cracks or other damage you can't see. She can also repair the tooth by filing it or by patching it with bonding material.

You may also want to call the dentist if a tooth is very loose. She may decide to pull the tooth so that your preschooler won't choke on it if it falls out on its own.

What should I do if my child knocks out one of his teeth?
If he knocks out a baby tooth, don't worry — a permanent tooth will eventually grow in its place. Baby teeth are important because they help your child eat and speak and because they hold a spot in your child's mouth for his permanent teeth to come in properly. See the dentist to make sure that no underlying teeth were damaged and that the permanent tooth will have enough space to grow in properly.

If your preschooler loses a permanent tooth, find the tooth if you can and rinse it gently in water. (Don't scrub it or you may remove important tissue fragments and roots.) If possible, insert it back in your child's tooth socket and hold it there. Then go to the dentist's office. (If it's after hours, call the dentist's emergency number to find out where to go for emergency dental treatment.) If you can't get the tooth back in your child's mouth, put it in milk and take it with you.

Will the dentist be able to put the knocked-out tooth back in?
The quicker you get to the dentist (hopefully less than 30 minutes), the better the chances. The dentist will clean your child's mouth and try to put the tooth back in place. She may also put a splint on the tooth to keep it in position until the root takes hold. During this time, your preschooler may need to be on a soft diet, at least initially, and he may need to take an antibiotic. The dentist will take another look at the tooth in a week or so to see if the splint can come off, and she'll continue to evaluate the tooth periodically. If the root doesn't take hold, sometimes a special kind of root canal can help.

How can I keep my preschooler from hurting his teeth?
You can't completely prevent accidents, but you can help a lot by taking these precautions:

• Childproof your home.

• Once your child starts playing contact sports, make sure that he wears a mouth guard.

• Teach your child to use caution when drinking from water fountains — it's easy to bump a tooth on the metal water jet.

• Teach your child to play safely on outdoor equipment, giving other children plenty of room. Tell him not to stand behind swings, for example, and not to pass other children on climbing equipment or water slides (two-thirds of water-slide injuries result in oral trauma).

• Always make sure your child is buckled up properly in his car seat.

• If your child has front teeth that protrude, have them evaluated by your dentist or an orthodontist. Teeth that protrude are more vulnerable than those that don't.

• Teach your child not to run with hard objects (like a lollipop or a toothbrush) in his mouth.

source from http://parentcenter.babycenter.com

Parents Center: Tooth Accidents (12 to 24 mo.)

What should I do if my toddler falls and hits a tooth?
Your active toddler is bound to fall on his face once in a while as he learns to walk, run, and climb. Occasionally he may hit a tooth.

First you'll want to make sure that your child has no other injuries (to his face or head, for example) that need emergency treatment. If he does, call 911.

If his gums start to bleed, apply pressure with a piece of wet gauze for few minutes (or until the bleeding stops). A frozen juice pop can limit the swelling and has the added benefit of taking your child's mind off the pain. Call the doctor immediately if you see anything unusual with your toddler's gums or teeth over the next week, or if you notice any signs of infection, such as fever or swelling and tenderness.

Should I take my toddler to the dentist if he hits a tooth?
If your toddler's teeth and gums look just fine and he doesn't seem to be in any pain, he should be okay without a dental check.

If the tooth is chipped or cracked and your toddler seems to be in pain, you should take him to the dentist right away, as part of the nerve may be exposed. You should also take your child to the dentist if the tooth is very loose. She may decide to pull it so that your toddler won't choke on it if it falls out on its own. Also have the dentist take a look at a tooth that seems out of place. She can evaluate whether it needs to be repositioned.

If the tooth is chipped but it doesn't seem to be bothering your toddler, schedule an appointment for the dentist to evaluate whether there are underlying cracks or other damage you can't see. She can also repair the tooth by filing it or patching it with bonding material, if you decide it's important for cosmetic reasons.

What should I do if my toddler knocks out one of his baby teeth?
Baby teeth are important because they help your child eat and speak and because they hold a spot in your baby's mouth for his permanent teeth to come in properly. Still, if a baby tooth gets knocked out, it's usually not a problem because a permanent tooth will eventually grow in its place. See the dentist to make sure that no underlying teeth were damaged and that the permanent tooth will have enough space to grow in properly without the baby tooth holding its spot.

How can I keep my toddler from hurting his teeth?
You can't completely prevent accidents, but you can help a lot by childproofing your home so that the number and severity of your child's falls are minimized. You'll want to secure rugs and close off stairways, for example. Always buckle your toddler up properly in his car seat. Also try to teach your child not to walk or run with hard objects (like a lollipop or a toothbrush) in his mouth.

source from http://www.babycenter.com

Parents Center: Tooth Accidents (birth to 12 mo.)

What should I do if my baby falls and hits a tooth?
If your baby is pulling himself up while holding onto the furniture or learning to take his first steps, he's bound to fall on his face sooner or later. Occasionally he may hit a tooth.

First you'll want to make sure that your baby has no other injuries (to his face or head, for example) that need emergency treatment. If he does, call 911.

If his gums start to bleed, apply pressure with a piece of wet gauze for few minutes (or until the bleeding stops). A frozen juice pop can limit the swelling and has the added benefit of taking your child's mind off the pain. Call the doctor immediately if you see anything unusual with your baby's gums or teeth over the next week, or if you notice any signs of infection, such as fever or swelling and tenderness.

Should I take my baby to the dentist if he hits a tooth?
If your baby's teeth and gums look just fine and he doesn't seem to be in any pain, he should be okay without a dental check.

If the tooth is chipped or cracked and your baby seems to be in pain, you should take him to the dentist right away, as part of the nerve may be exposed. You should also take your baby to the dentist if the tooth is very loose. She may decide to pull it so that your baby won't choke on it if it falls out on its own. Also have the dentist take a look at a tooth that seems out of place. She can evaluate whether it needs to be repositioned.

If the tooth is chipped but it doesn't seem to be bothering your baby, schedule an appointment for the dentist to evaluate whether there are underlying cracks or other damage you can't see. She can also repair the tooth by filing it or patching it with bonding material, if you decide it's important for cosmetic reasons.

What should I do if my child knocks out one of his baby teeth?
Baby teeth are important because they help your child eat and learn to speak and because they hold a spot in your baby's mouth for his permanent teeth to come in properly. Still, if a baby tooth gets knocked out, it's usually not a problem because a permanent tooth will eventually grow in its place. See the dentist just in case to make sure that no underlying teeth were damaged and that the permanent tooth will have enough space to grow in properly without the baby tooth holding its spot.

How can I keep my baby from hurting his teeth?
You can't completely prevent accidents, but you can help a lot by childproofing your home so that the number and severity of your baby's falls are minimized. You'll want to secure rugs and close off stairways, for example. Always buckle your baby up properly in his car seat. Also try to teach your child not to walk or run with hard objects (like a lollipop or a toothbrush) in his mouth.

source from http://www.babycenter.com

Parents Center: Teething (2 to 4 age)

When will my child get all of her teeth?
Teething patterns vary greatly from child to child, but typically the last teeth to appear (the second molars, found in the very back of the mouth on the top and bottom) are coming in by the second birthday. By age 3, your child should have a full set of 20 baby teeth, which shouldn't fall out until her permanent teeth are ready to start coming in, around age 6.

What teething symptoms will my child experience?
Because your child's molars are bigger and more blunt than the middle teeth that came in first, you might expect their eruption to cause more pain. Actually, it's likely that that your child's final teeth will come in practically unnoticed. Laura Grunbaum, a pediatrician in San Leandro, California, says few parents complain to her about their preschooler's teething, either because they know what to do by now or their child simply isn't in much pain.

In fact, experts disagree about whether teething causes symptoms — like fussiness, diarrhea, and fever — or whether these common symptoms are not related to teething at all and just coincidentally appear at the same time as emerging teeth. Regardless, many parents maintain that their teething children do suffer discomfort (though some children get through the process with no problems at all). If your preschooler does have teething trouble, here are the symptoms she's most likely to experience:

• Gum swelling and sensitivity

• Irritability or fussiness

• Biting behavior

• Refusing food

• Sleep problems

Though many parents report that their children have loose stools, runny noses, or a fever just before a new tooth arrives, most experts don't think teething is to blame for these symptoms. One who does is William Sears, pediatrician and author of The Baby Book. Sears believes that teething can cause diarrhea and a mild diaper rash because your child's excessive saliva ends up in her gut and loosens her stools. Inflammation in the gums, he thinks, may cause a low fever (under 101 degrees Fahrenheit).

On the other hand, child development experts such as Penelope Leach assert that teething cannot cause fever, diarrhea, vomiting, or loss of appetite and that these are signs of illness that should be checked out. Noted pediatrician T. Berry Brazelton says such symptoms are probably due to an infection unrelated to teething, but that the stress associated with teething could make your child more vulnerable to infection right before a new tooth appears.

The one thing experts agree on is that you should call your child's doctor if your preschooler has symptoms that worry you or a rectal temperature of 102 degrees F or higher. The doctor can help determine whether your child is showing signs of a problem that needs medical attention, like an ear infection. If your preschooler has loose stools — but not diarrhea — don't worry. The condition will clear up on its own.

What can I do to ease my child's discomfort?
The same tactics you used when she was a baby may help your preschooler now. She's probably less interested in chewing on objects to ease the soreness in her gums, but it's still okay to at least offer her a rubber teething ring or a cold washcloth to gnaw on. Hard or cold foods may be more appealing to her, like hard-baked toast, apple slices, a frozen bagel, applesauce, or yogurt.

If these methods aren't working, some doctors recommend giving a teething child a small dose of pain reliever such as children's acetaminophen — but check with your doctor before giving your preschooler any medication. (Never give your preschooler aspirin or even rub it on her gums to ease the pain. The use of aspirin in children is associated with Reye's syndrome, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition.)

Rubbing the gums with a topical pain relief gel is also an option, but you may want to ask your child's doctor before trying it. If you use too much, it can numb the back of your child's throat and weaken his gag reflex (which helps prevent him from choking on his saliva). The gels are generally safe to use, but in rare cases can cause an allergic reaction.

source from http://parentcenter.babycenter.com

Parents Center: Teething (12 to 24 mo.)

When will my toddler get all of his teeth?
Teething patterns vary greatly from child to child — some don't have any teeth at their first birthday, while others are sporting a mouthful by then. The vast majority of babies sprout their first teeth between 4 and 7 months of age. (If your child still doesn't have any teeth by 15 to 18 months, schedule a visit with a pediatric dentist.)

Teeth generally appear one at a time over a period of months, and often — but not always — in this order: First the bottom two middle teeth, then the top two middle ones, then the ones along the sides and back. (They may not all come in straight, but don't worry — they usually straighten out over time.) Your toddler's first molars, the wider teeth in the back of the mouth, will probably start to appear by the time he turns 1.

The last teeth to appear (the second molars, found in the very back of the mouth on the top and bottom) are usually all in place by a child's second birthday. By age 3, your child should have a full set of 20 baby teeth, which shouldn't fall out until his permanent teeth are ready to start coming in, around age 6.

What teething symptoms will my toddler experience?
Because your child's molars are bigger and more blunt than the middle teeth that came in first, you might expect their eruption to cause more pain. Actually, it�s likely that that your child's final teeth will come in practically unnoticed. Laura Grunbaum, a pediatrician in San Leandro, California, says few parents complain to her about their toddler's teething, either because they know what to do by now or their child simply isn't in much pain.

In fact, experts disagree about whether teething causes symptoms — like fussiness, diarrhea,and fever — or whether these common symptoms are not related to teething at all and just coincidentally appear at the same time as emerging teeth. Regardless, many parents maintain that their teething children do suffer discomfort (though some children get through the process with no problems at all). If your toddler does have teething trouble, here are the symptoms he's most likely to experience:

• Drooling (which can lead to a facial rash)

• Gum swelling and sensitivity

• Irritability or fussiness

• Biting behavior

• Refusing food

• Sleep problems

Though many parents report that their children have loose stools, runny noses, or a fever just before a new tooth arrives, most experts don't think teething is to blame for these symptoms. One who does is William Sears, pediatrician and author of The Baby Book. Sears believes that teething can cause diarrhea and a mild diaper rash because your child's excessive saliva ends up in his gut and loosens his stools. Inflammation in the gums, he thinks, may cause a low fever (under 101 degrees Fahrenheit).

On the other hand, child development experts such as Penelope Leach assert that teething cannot cause fever, diarrhea, vomiting, or loss of appetite and that these are signs of illness that should be checked out. Noted pediatrician T. Berry Brazelton says such symptoms are probably due to an infection unrelated to teething, but that the stress associated with teething could make your child more vulnerable to infection right before a new tooth appears.

The one thing experts agree on is that you should call your child's doctor if your toddler has symptoms that worry you or a rectal temperature of 102 degrees F or higher. The doctor can help determine whether your child is showing signs of a problem that needs medical attention, like an ear infection. If your toddler has loose stools — but not diarrhea — don't worry. The condition will clear up on its own.

What can I do to ease my toddler's discomfort?
The same tactics you used when he was younger may help your child now. Your teething toddler will probably continue to want to chew on things to ease the soreness in his gums. Offer him a rubber teething ring or a cold washcloth to gnaw on. Hard-baked toast, apple slices, or a frozen bagel are also a good bet. Not only are these foods soothing, but chewing them is good practice for his developing jaw. He may also get some relief from eating cold foods such as applesauce or yogurt.

If these methods aren't working, some doctors recommend giving a teething child a small dose of pain reliever such as children's acetaminophen — but check with your doctor before giving your toddler any medication. (Never give your toddler aspirin or even rub it on his gums to ease the pain. The use of aspirin in children is associated with Reye's syndrome, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition.)

Rubbing the gums with a topical pain relief gel is also an option, but you may want to ask your toddler's doctor before trying it. If you use too much, it can numb the back of your child's throat and weaken his gag reflex (which helps prevent him from choking on his saliva). The gels are generally safe to use, but in rare cases can cause an allergic reaction.

If drool causes a rash on your child's face, wipe, but don't rub, the drool away with a soft cotton cloth. You can also smooth petroleum jelly on his chin before a nap or bedtime to protect the skin from further irritation.

For advice from other parents specific to your toddler's teething woes, visit our Surviving teething bulletin board.

source from http://www.babycenter.com

Parents Center: Teething (birth to 12 mo.)

Tender, swollen gums can make life miserable for your baby. If you haven't found the right teether to ease her distress, try one of these alternatives that worked for BabyCenter parents.

The humble washcloth
Cold washcloths were the best because they were easiest to chew on. I also used to put a crushed ice cube inside a washcloth, tie it up, and let her chew until all of the ice chips had melted. — LaTonya

Hands down, my baby's favorite soother is a fresh washcloth soaked in some brewed chamomile tea that I keep cold and ready in the fridge. Also, if you use a cold teething ring, try one with a handle of solid plastic that won't get as cold when she's holding it. — Becca

Alternative teethers
We recently discovered a vibrating teething "star." I think First Steps makes it. When she bites down, it vibrates, and the baby loves it. The rings you put in the fridge or freezer are "too cool" for her. — Kim

I purchased aTeething Blanket by Munchkin for my 16-week-old son and he loves it. I suggest that you buy two. One can be washed while the other is in use. — Kerry

We found a teether that had a freezable part and a hard plastic handle. Our daughter had a much easier time gripping the not-frozen handle. With all the other frozen teethers, she'd just fling them from her chilly little fingers. — Brenda

Frozen food as chew-toy
Frozen bagels worked well for my daughter when she started teething. — Chris

Our baby's not taking any solids yet, but we put a few frozen grapes in the baby feeder mesh bag and she absolutely LOVES chewing on it. You can put frozen bananas or even just crushed ice in it. It's a little messy, but the babies seem to enjoy it. — Julie

I'm a breastfeeding mom and a friend recommended pumping and freezing the milk in an ice cube tray then putting the frozen milk cube into a mesh feeder bag. It worked well and my daughter loved it. She was an early teether so other frozen treats were out. — Cindy

Cold and wet
My daughter thwarted all our attempts at using traditional teething soothers. We started keeping a baby bottle full of water in the fridge. Although the water has no nutritional value, the sucking was soothing and the ice-cold nipple was great for her to chew on. Just keep an eye out for A LOT more wet diapers. — Katrina

source from http://www.babycenter.com

Parents Center: Teething Solutions (12 to 24 mo.)

Tender, swollen gums can make life miserable for your baby. If you haven't found the right teether to ease her distress, try one of these alternatives that worked for BabyCenter parents.

The humble washcloth
Cold washcloths were the best because they were easiest to chew on. I also used to put a crushed ice cube inside a washcloth, tie it up, and let her chew until all of the ice chips had melted. — LaTonya

Hands down, my baby's favorite soother is a fresh washcloth soaked in some brewed chamomile tea that I keep cold and ready in the fridge. Also, if you use a cold teething ring, try one with a handle of solid plastic that won't get as cold when she's holding it. — Becca

Alternative teethers
We recently discovered a vibrating teething "star." I think First Steps makes it. When she bites down, it vibrates, and the baby loves it. The rings you put in the fridge or freezer are "too cool" for her. — Kim

I purchased a Teething Blanket by Munchkin for my 16-week-old son and he loves it. I suggest that you buy two. One can be washed while the other is in use. — Kerry

We found a teether that had a freezable part and a hard plastic handle. Our daughter had a much easier time gripping the not-frozen handle. With all the other frozen teethers, she'd just fling them from her chilly little fingers. — Brenda

Frozen food as chew-toy
Frozen bagels worked well for my daughter when she started teething. — Chris

Our baby's not taking any solids yet, but we put a few frozen grapes in the baby feeder mesh bag and she absolutely LOVES chewing on it. You can put frozen bananas or even just crushed ice in it. It's a little messy, but the babies seem to enjoy it. — Julie

I'm a breastfeeding mom and a friend recommended pumping and freezing the milk in an ice cube tray then putting the frozen milk cube into a mesh feeder bag. It worked well and my daughter loved it. She was an early teether so other frozen treats were out. — Cindy

Cold and wet
My daughter thwarted all our attempts at using traditional teething soothers. We started keeping a baby bottle full of water in the fridge. Although the water has no nutritional value, the sucking was soothing and the ice-cold nipple was great for her to chew on. Just keep an eye out for A LOT more wet diapers. — Katrina

source from http://www.babycenter.com

Dental Health Guide For Your Baby

Your child's first teeth will begin coming in between three and sixteen months (usually around six months). The two bottom front teeth will be the first to come in and this will be followed by the four upper teeth in four to eight weeks. The timing of the eruption of the first tooth is largely influenced by genetics, so if there is a family history of getting the first tooth late, then your child will probably also get his first tooth late.

Your child will continue to get new teeth until he has all twenty of his primary teeth when he is three years old, with most children getting about four new teeth every four months. Children begin shedding their first teeth when they are around 6-7 years old, and this process is complete with the loss of the 2nd molars when he is about 11-13 years old.

Permanent teeth begin erupting at around 6-7 years of age and continues until your child gets his third molars (or wisdom teeth) when he is about 17-22 years old.

Does teething cause...

In most children, teething only causes increased drooling and a desire to chew on hard things, but in some it does cause mild pain and irritability and the gums may become swollen and tender. To help this you can vigorously massage the area for a few minutes or let him chew on a smooth, hard teething ring. Teething should not cause fever, diarrhea, sleeping problems or diaper rashes. While most children do not need teething gels or treatment with Tylenol for pain, you can use these products if necessary.

When should I begin cleaning my child's teeth?

Once your child's teeth begin erupting, you can begin cleaning them by wiping them with a moist washcloth. As your child gets more teeth, you can begin to use a soft child's toothbrush. You should use just a pea-size amount of a fluoride toothpaste or a non-fluoride toothpaste (like Baby OraGel) until your child is able to spit it out (too much fluoride can stain their teeth).

When should I take my child to the dentist?

According to the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the first visit to the dentist should be 'when the first tooth comes in, usually between six and twelve months of age.'

The American Academy of Pediatrics used to recommend that the first visit to the dentist be at three years of age. Now, because so many children have cavities by the time they start kindergarten, the AAP states that high risk children should see a dentist six months after their first tooth erupts or before they are 12 months old.

In addition to looking for and preventing problems, an early visit to the dentist can help educate you about your child's oral health and proper hygeine. If your child is not high risk, your Pediatrician should begin oral health evaluations by six months of age.

So when should the first visit be? If your child doesn't have any risk factors for developing cavities, such as sleeping with a cup or bottle or walking around all day with a cup of juice, and if his teeth seem to be developing normally, then you can probably wait until your child is older and just ask your Pediatrician to check his teeth at each well child visit.

Another risk factor for getting a lot of cavities can include having a mother with a lot of cavities. Also, kids with special health care needs, later order offspring, and children from families of low socioeconomic status, are considered to be at risk for cavities and should likely see a dentist early.

If your child has any problems, such as staining of his teeth, crowding or abnomal tooth development, or if he has any risk factors for developing cavities, then he should see a dentist earlier. You may also want to see a dentist if your child has any persistent habits, such as sucking his thumb or using a pacifier as a toddler or grinding his teeth at night (bruxism).

If your family dentist tells you that your first visit should be delayed until he is four or five years old, then you may want to see a Pediatric dentist for the first few years.

Does my child need fluoride supplements?

In general, yes. All children need supplemental fluoride after they are six months old to help prevent cavities. For most children, they can get this fluoride from the water they drink, if they are in an area where the city water supply has an adequate amount of fluoride in it (greater than 0.6 ppm), and they are drinking tap water.

Sources of water that generally don't have enough fluoride include well water and filtered or bottled water, although some brands of bottled water (or nursery water) do have fluoride added to it. Also, commercially prepared pre-mixed infant formulas do not contain an adaquate amount of fluoride, so consider using a powder or concentrated formula and mixing it with tap water, supplement your infant with extra tap water, or talk to your Pediatrician about giving fluoride supplements.

If you only use a water filter pitcher or a counter top filter, it likely doesn't remove the fluoride from the water. Other types of water filters might though. If you have any doubt, check with the filter's manufacturer.

It is in general better to have your child drink water that is supplemented with fluoride instead of giving extra fluoride drops or supplements. Too much fluoride can cause fluorosis, which is permanent white to brown discoloration of the enamel of the teeth. It is easier to get fluorosis if you are giving your child fluoride drops and he is still getting fluoride from his diet.

Talk with your Pediatrician or Pediatric Dentist if you think that your child may need fluoride supplements.

Why are my child's teeth stained?

In addition to intrinsic staining, that can be caused by fluorosis, blood and bile pigments, inherited defects of dentin and enamel, medications (especially tetracycline), and trauma, teeth can also be extrinsically stained from bacteria and food stains.

Does my child need sealants?

Sealants are usually applied to the back teeth to help protect the grooves and pits of these teeth that can be hard to clean and are prone to developing cavities. A sealant is a plastic material that is applied to the teeth, hardens, and provides a barrier against plaque and other harmful substances. Sealants should be applied to the 1st and 2nd permanent molars and appropriate premolars as soon as possible after they erupt (usually after 6 years of age).

source from http://www.keepkidshealthy.com