At Providence Pediatric Dentistry, we believe every child deserves a healthy start to their smile. Establishing good oral hygiene habits early can have lasting effects on your child’s oral health. Here’s how to build a strong foundation for your baby’s smile, with tips from your trusted Providence pediatric dentist.

Nighttime Feeding

• Clean Before Teeth Erupt: Before your baby has teeth, gently clean their gums and tongue with a warm, damp cloth or a finger brush after each feeding.
• Care After Teeth Emerge: Once the first tooth appears, it’s crucial to clean their gums, teeth, and tongue after nighttime feedings. Leftover milk or formula can lead to enamel damage and increase the risk of tooth decay.

Weaning from Nighttime Feeding

• When to Start: By six months, many infants can begin to sleep through the night without feedings. This process, known as night weaning, helps reduce their dependency on milk or formula during the night.
• Encourage Solid Foods: Offering satisfying solid meals before bedtime can help ease the transition. If your baby wakes at night, it’s often for reasons other than hunger.

Prolonged Thumb Sucking & Pacifier Use

• Why It’s Harmful: Thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier use can affect the development of your child’s jaw, teeth alignment, and speech patterns.
• When to Stop: The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends weaning children off these habits by age three to prevent long-term effects on oral and facial development.

Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods

• The Risks: Sugary and acidic foods or drinks, such as fruits, juices, and sodas, promote bacteria growth, which can damage tooth enamel and lead to cavities.
• Healthy Habits: Avoid unnecessary sugary snacks and drinks. If your child enjoys fruit or juice, encourage brushing soon after to remove lingering sugars.

First Dental Visits

• When to Schedule: Your child’s first visit to our Providence pediatric dentist should occur when their first tooth appears or by their first birthday.
• Benefits: Early visits familiarize your child with our dental office, creating positive associations with oral care. Pediatric dentists are specially trained to address the unique needs of infants and children.

Start Healthy Habits Early

A strong oral hygiene routine at home, paired with regular dental visits, sets the stage for lifelong dental health. At Providence Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here to guide you through each stage of your child’s development.

Contact our office today to schedule your baby’s first visit and learn more about creating a healthy foundation for their smile!