Every day as a new parent brings its own set of lessons and joys. As you admire your baby’s sweet gummy smile, you might wonder how you can best support their oral health. We are here to address the most common questions from new parents and offer expert advice to help you nurture your little one’s growing smile. 

Can Breastfeeding or Bottle Feeding Contribute to Cavities?  

The choice between breastfeeding and bottle feeding is a personal one and depends on your family’s specific situation. It is important to consult your medical team to decide what works best for your family. When it comes to dental health, breastfeeding is generally associated with a lower occurrence of cavities. However, bottle feeding is safe and effective when done with the right precautions. The most important factor is ensuring your baby is well-fed and receives all the essential nutrients needed for strong, healthy teeth. 

Regardless of your feeding method, there are a couple of key practices to prevent cavities:  

• Stick to regular feeding times and avoid letting your child feed throughout the night or use a bottle all day. 
• After feeding, gently wipe your baby’s gums with a wet cloth to clean their mouth.

Should I Let My Child Suck Their Thumb? 

Thumb-sucking is a natural habit for infants and toddlers. Most children naturally stop thumb-sucking by age 2. However, if the habit persists into the toddler years, it is best to start discouraging it by age 4. Thumb-sucking past this age can lead to various orthodontic concerns, including crowded teeth and abnormal bite alignment. Your child’s dentist may recommend an oral appliance to discourage thumb-sucking if they are having trouble kicking the habit. 

Is it Okay to Give My Baby Pacifiers?  

Giving your baby a pacifier is completely fine and actually has great benefits. Pacifier use reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), and experts often recommend pacifier use over thumb-sucking since pacifiers can be taken away when it is time to wean, unlike the thumb. If you are breastfeeding, wait until your baby’s third or fourth week of life to introduce a pacifier. This helps establish an effective nursing routine.  

Here are some tips for safe pacifier use to support your child’s dental health: 

• Always clean pacifiers before giving them to your child 
• Never dip pacifiers in sugar or honey to prevent tooth decay
• Start weaning your child off pacifiers between 12 and 18 months of age to prevent dental misalignments

When Should I Start Brushing My Child’s Teeth?  

As soon as your baby’s first tooth erupts, it is time to buy their first toothbrush! Use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush with a smear of toothpaste the size of a grain of rice to gently clean their teeth in circular motions. You can also use a finger brush. Remember to brush their teeth twice a day and replace their toothbrush every three months.  

Should My Child Drink Fluoridated Water?  

Most communities add fluoride to tap water to help prevent tooth decay and strengthen teeth. If your family prefers bottled water or does not have access to fluoridated water, let your child’s dentist know. They may prescribe a fluoride supplement to ensure your child receives the right amount of fluoride for healthy, strong teeth. 

 

 

By establishing good oral hygiene habits early and seeking professional advice, you can ensure your child develops a strong, healthy smile for life. Together, we can lay the foundation for a lifetime of bright, healthy smiles.