Your baby’s first tooth is an exciting milestone for parents and one which often causes disruption as most babies experience pain and discomfort as their teeth move around in their gums before breaking through. Crying, red cheeks and excessive dribbling are all common symptoms of teething and you can watch out for these and help to relieve your baby’s pain.
Ease Teething Pain and Soothe Your Baby’s Gums
If your baby is in a lot of pain, he or she is likely to be unsettled, frustrated and grumpy. Cold or hard foods, such as carrot or apple sticks, can ease the pressure on tiny gums or you may find it helps to try a teether. Teething rings and hard toys that babies can bite on are often good choices for soothing the pain in the gums that accompanies teething and you can freeze some teethers for added pain relief.
There are many remedies available over the counter but you should be extremely careful when considering giving medicines to your child as these can have unpleasant side effects and can mask the symptoms of illness. Natural alternatives, such as the homeopathic chamomila remedy, made from chamomile flowers, are often very effective and can be purchased in powder form from your chemist or supermarket.
Tips for Your Baby’s Oral Health Care Routine
You should ensure that your baby establishes good dental hygiene habits from the very beginning by:
- Brushing twice daily from the first emergence of teeth. You can use your finger wrapped in a muslin cloth to clean the first teeth if you find it easier but by the time your baby develops molars, you should be brushing in the morning and at night, cleaning each teeth with circular motions. You may find it easiest to sit your child on your lap facing away from you to brush their teeth.
- Being a good role model. Brushing your own teeth every morning and night, as well as flossing daily and having good eating habits, will set a positive example to your child and ensure that they see their own oral hygiene as an important part of their daily routine.
- Establishing a good diet. You should give your child a balanced diet that meets all of their nutritional needs and helps to keep their teeth strong and white. Seek advice from a medical professional if you are unsure what is best for your child to eat.
- Avoid sugary foods and drinks. High levels of tooth decay are seen in children who have consumed sugar from an early age and especially those who have been given juice drinks or soda in bottles. Give your baby drinks of milk and water to encourage healthy habits.
- Make your dentist a familiar face. Take your baby along with you to the dentist and show them the importance of regular dental care. Ensuring they visit from an early age will mean your child will be less likely to feel anxious about dental appointments and will know how easy it is to seek help when it is needed.
Visit Your Dentist in Ballincollig
If you’re looking for an experienced and family-friendly dentist in Cork, Guiney Dental Practice will be happy to help. Call today on 021-481 0535.