Has your child ever winced in pain while eating, complaining of a burning sensation in their mouth? This might be a sign of canker sores, those painful mouth ulcers. While usually harmless, canker sores can make eating and drinking difficult for kids.
This My Teeth and Me article will guide you through canker sore treatment for children, covering their causes, symptoms, and effective home remedies.
We'll also discuss when to see a doctor and how to prevent these pesky sores.
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow sores that typically develop on the inside of the cheeks, lips, tongue, or the base of the gums.
Unlike cold sores, which are caused by the herpes simplex virus and appear on the outside of the lips, canker sores are not contagious.
Canker sores usually appear as round or oval-shaped sores with a white or yellowish base surrounded by a red border. They can vary in size from tiny specks to larger, more painful ulcers.
The exact cause of canker sores in children isn't always clear, but several factors can contribute to their development:
Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Have your child gently swish the solution around in their mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out. Repeat several times a day.
Honey possesses natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe canker sores and promote healing. Apply a small amount of honey directly to the sore using a clean cotton swab.
Aloe vera gel has soothing and healing properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with canker sores. Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel directly to the sore using a clean cotton swab.
Milk of Magnesia can help neutralize the acid in the mouth, which can sometimes irritate canker sores. Apply a small amount of milk of magnesia directly to the sore using a clean cotton swab.
Over-the-counter topical anesthetics, such as Orajel or Anbesol, can temporarily numb the area and provide relief from pain.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with canker sores.
These products can numb the area and provide temporary relief from pain.
Be aware that these products can cause temporary numbing of the tongue, which may interfere with swallowing or speech.
If your child’s canker sores aren’t improving or are particularly bothersome, it might be time to consult a healthcare provider.
If your child frequently gets canker sores, it’s important to consult a pediatrician to determine if there’s an underlying health condition.
Canker sores typically heal within 1-2 weeks, so if they persist beyond that, a doctor’s evaluation is necessary.
These symptoms could indicate a more serious condition that requires immediate attention.
Sores that are unusually large, appear in clusters, or are bleeding should be evaluated by a doctor.
If your child’s canker sores seem to be connected to other health issues, such as a weakened immune system or nutritional deficiencies, it’s essential to seek medical guidance.
In addition to canker sores, young children often experience teething, which can cause discomfort similar to mouth ulcers.
Excessive drooling is a common sign that your baby may be teething.
Children may be cranky or have trouble sleeping while teething.
Babies and toddlers tend to chew on toys, fingers, or other objects to relieve teething discomfort.
The pain and discomfort of teething can disrupt a child’s sleep schedule.
A mild fever is not uncommon when teething, but if it exceeds 100.4°F (38°C), consult a doctor.
Swollen gums are another clear sign of teething.
If your child has a low-grade fever, you may worry that it’s related to teething, but a doctor should be consulted if the fever is high or persistent.
If your child experiences a high fever, it may be a sign of infection, and you should seek medical advice.
Teething can cause drooling, which may lead to skin rashes on the chin or neck.
Apply gentle creams or ointments to soothe the skin and reduce irritation.
Teething rings or toys can help numb the gums and provide relief.
Massaging your child’s gums with a clean finger can alleviate discomfort.
Located in the heart of New York, NY, My Teeth and Me is the best dental office for pediatric care. Dr. Liora Benichou’s office focuses on creating a warm, patient-centered environment where children receive the highest quality of care.
With a comprehensive range of services such as cleanings, fillings, orthodontics, and fluoride treatments, My Teeth and Me ensures your child’s smile stays bright and healthy.
Canker sores are a common occurrence in children, but with the right treatment, they can be managed effectively. By understanding the causes, recognizing symptoms early, and using appropriate remedies, parents can help ease their child’s discomfort.
Remember, if canker sores persist or worsen, it’s always best to consult a healthcare provider at My Teeth and Me for further advice.
Teething is an exciting yet challenging milestone for parents and babies alike. It signals your baby's growth, but it often comes with discomfort and confusion.
One common concern parents face is the question, can teething cause fever? While teething is often blamed for fevers, there’s more to the story.
Let’s explore the relationship between teething and fever, separate myths from facts, learn when your child should visit the dentist, and provide actionable advice to make this phase smoother for you and your baby in this My Teeth and Me guide.
Teething is the process where an infant's teeth start emerging through the gums, usually around six months of age. While this is an exciting time for parents, it can also be a challenging period due to the discomfort and distress that teething can cause for babies.
Some babies sail through the process with barely a fuss, while others might experience noticeable irritability and physical changes.
Teething refers to the eruption of primary teeth, often called “baby teeth,” through the gum line. The process usually begins when a baby is between 4 to 7 months old, although the exact timing varies for each child.
Most children will have a full set of 20 primary teeth by the age of three. The first teeth to appear are typically the lower central incisors, followed by the upper central incisors. This process is gradual and continues until all baby teeth are in place.
The question of whether teething can cause fever has puzzled parents and healthcare professionals for years. While it is tempting to attribute every new symptom to teething, it’s essential to separate fact from fiction when addressing this concern.
The idea that teething causes fever has been widely debated, but pediatric experts generally agree that teething does not directly cause a fever.
If your baby has a temperature higher than 100.4°F (38°C), it is more likely due to an unrelated illness, such as a mild viral infection.
Mild inflammation of the gums during teething can cause slight warmth, but it is not enough to elevate the body’s core temperature to the level of a true fever.
The belief that teething leads to fever has been passed down through generations, often supported by anecdotal observations from parents.
However, studies show that while teething can cause local gum irritation and discomfort, it does not trigger the immune response necessary to produce a full-body fever.
Other symptoms, such as a runny nose or diarrhea, are also commonly misattributed to teething but are more likely signs of a coinciding illness.
Teething primarily affects the gums and mouth, leading to localized symptoms like swelling and soreness. Fever, on the other hand, involves the entire body and typically occurs when the immune system is fighting off an infection.
The absence of systemic changes during teething further supports the conclusion that teething is unlikely to cause a fever.
It is important for parents to remain vigilant and distinguish between typical teething symptoms and signs of a more serious condition.
If your baby develops a high fever, appears unusually lethargic, or has additional concerning symptoms such as a persistent rash or difficulty breathing, consult a pediatrician promptly.
While teething might coincide with illness, it should not be considered the primary cause of fever or other severe symptoms.
Teething often stimulates excessive saliva production. While it’s harmless, constant drooling can lead to a mild rash around the mouth, chin, or neck.
The pressure of emerging teeth against the gums can make babies cranky. You might notice your little one crying more frequently or having trouble settling down.
Teething pain can disrupt normal routines. Babies may refuse food or wake up more frequently at night due to discomfort.
Swollen, tender gums are a hallmark of teething. You may notice redness or small bumps where the teeth are about to emerge.
Chewing on a teething ring can provide gentle pressure to soothe aching gums. Opt for BPA-free rings for safety.
Cold items, like chilled cucumber slices or yogurt, can numb sore gums and reduce inflammation. Avoid frozen items that can be too hard.
If your baby is particularly uncomfortable, infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help. Always consult a doctor for the correct dosage.
Rubbing your baby’s gums with a clean finger can offer immediate relief. Use circular motions for the best results.
While drooling can cause loose stools, consistent diarrhea or vomiting should be evaluated by a doctor.
Swelling, redness, or pus around the gums could indicate an infection requiring prompt care.
If your child appears lethargic, has difficulty breathing, or exhibits other alarming signs, seek help right away.
Start cleaning your baby’s teeth as soon as they appear. Use a soft, baby-friendly toothbrush and water.
For infants under two, fluoride-free toothpaste is recommended to protect their developing teeth and gums.
Schedule your baby’s first dental visit by their first birthday at My Teeth and Me. Early check-ups establish a strong foundation for oral health.
Drooling-related rashes are common, but they’re not directly caused by teething. Keeping the area dry can help.
While drooling might loosen stools, frequent diarrhea is likely due to another cause and should be checked by a doctor.
Breast milk provides comfort and nutrients during teething. Avoid prolonged bottle-feeding to prevent tooth decay.
Pacifiers can soothe babies, but overuse might affect tooth alignment. Gradually limit their use after teething.
Invest in safe, age-appropriate teething toys. Clean them regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.
Remember, teething is temporary. Your calm and supportive demeanor can ease your baby’s discomfort.
A quiet, dimly lit room can help soothe a fussy baby. Soft music or white noise may also be comforting.
Sometimes, all your baby needs is a cuddle. Holding and rocking them can make a world of difference.
Excessive drooling during teething can lead to rashes around the mouth and neck. Apply a thin layer of barrier cream, like petroleum jelly, to protect the skin. Regularly wipe drool with a soft, clean cloth.
If you’re seeking expert care for your child’s dental health in New York, NY, look no further than My Teeth and Me. Located on the Upper East Side, we are a family-centered pediatric dental practice committed to providing personalized, comprehensive care.
Our services include cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, and orthodontic recommendations. With a focus on preventive care and education, we aim to empower families with the tools they need to maintain healthy smiles.
Let us be your partner in ensuring your child’s oral health journey starts on the right note. Contact us today.
So, can teething cause fever? While teething may lead to mild discomfort and a slight increase in temperature, it’s unlikely to cause a true fever.
Monitoring your baby’s symptoms and staying informed will help you navigate this phase with ease. When in doubt, consult a healthcare professional at My Teeth and Me to rule out other causes.
Teething is a major milestone in your baby’s life, but it often comes with its fair share of challenges—one of which is the dreaded teething rash. As parents, seeing your little one struggle with red, irritated skin can be worrisome.
But don’t worry—you’re not alone, and this My Teeth and Me guide will equip you with all the information and tools you need to understand, manage, and prevent pediatric teething rash effectively.
A teething rash is a common skin irritation that occurs when a baby is teething. It typically appears around the mouth, cheeks, chin, or even the neck.
The rash results from excessive drooling, which irritates sensitive baby skin. The constant moisture can lead to redness, tiny bumps, and even chafing.
Absolutely. Most babies experience some form of teething rash during their teething journey. With the increase in saliva production during this time, it’s almost inevitable.
While it can be distressing to see, it’s a completely normal part of the teething process.
Teething rash usually appears between 4 to 7 months of age, coinciding with the eruption of the first teeth.
However, some babies may experience it earlier or later, depending on their unique development.
Teething rash is characterized by:
While teething rash itself doesn’t directly cause behavioral changes, teething discomfort can make babies fussier than usual. Look out for signs like increased irritability, crying, or difficulty sleeping.
When babies drool excessively during teething, saliva sits on their skin for prolonged periods. This damp environment can break down the skin’s protective barrier, causing irritation and redness.
Drooling is the primary culprit behind teething rash. As teething stimulates the salivary glands, the constant wetness around the mouth and neck area can lead to skin irritation if not properly managed.
Use a soft, clean cloth to gently pat your baby’s face dry throughout the day. Avoid rubbing, as this can further irritate the skin.
A cool, damp cloth can soothe the irritated area. Lightly dab the affected skin to provide immediate relief.
Use a barrier cream, such as petroleum jelly or a baby-safe ointment, to create a protective layer over the skin. This prevents saliva from sitting directly on the skin.
In severe cases, a pediatrician may recommend a mild hydrocortisone cream to reduce inflammation. Always consult your doctor before using any medication.
If the rash persists, worsens, or appears infected (with symptoms like pus or increased redness), it’s time to seek medical advice at My Teeth and Me.
Frequent wiping of saliva with a soft cloth is the best defense. Keeping the skin dry minimizes irritation.
Bibs with waterproof backing are a lifesaver. They keep saliva from soaking into your baby’s clothing and irritating the neck.
A chilled teether can help reduce drooling by soothing your baby’s gums. Always ensure teethers are clean and free of harmful chemicals.
While teething may cause mild discomfort, it doesn’t directly cause fever. If your baby has a fever, it’s likely due to another issue.
Similarly, teething is not a cause of diarrhea. Any changes in bowel movements during teething are typically coincidental.
Teething rash is localized to areas where drool comes into contact with the skin. A rash elsewhere is likely unrelated.
Teething rash is limited to areas exposed to drool. Conditions like eczema or allergic reactions often appear in other areas and may have additional symptoms like itching.
If the rash spreads, becomes painful, or shows signs of infection, it’s crucial to see a doctor for evaluation.
No, teething rash typically heals without leaving scars. Proper care and treatment ensure healthy skin recovery.
Teething rash has no impact on tooth development. It’s simply a temporary skin issue.
While less common, older babies or toddlers can develop teething rash if they drool excessively during the eruption of molars.
The same care methods apply—keep the area clean, use barrier creams, and manage drooling effectively.
Yes, acidic foods like oranges can exacerbate skin irritation. Avoid these foods if your baby already has a rash.
Offer soft, non-acidic foods like mashed bananas or yogurt. These are gentle on your baby’s gums and won’t worsen the rash.
Teething discomfort, coupled with irritation from the rash, can disrupt your baby’s sleep. They may wake more frequently or struggle to settle.
Create a calming bedtime routine, use a soothing balm on the affected area, and ensure your baby’s sleeping environment is comfortable.
Discomfort from teething and rash may make your baby more irritable or clingy. They rely on you for comfort during this challenging time.
Cuddle them often, offer soothing teethers, and maintain a calm environment to ease their stress.
No, vaccinations do not cause teething rash. Any rash following vaccination is unrelated to teething and should be discussed with a doctor.
It’s safe to vaccinate your baby during teething. If you’re concerned about their comfort, consult your pediatrician.
Wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth daily. This prevents bacteria buildup and keeps their mouth and teeth healthy.
Introduce a soft-bristled toothbrush once teeth emerge. Good oral hygiene minimizes saliva irritation.
At My Teeth and Me, we understand how overwhelming teething can be for parents. Located in the heart of New York, NY, our pediatric dental practice follows the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry guidelines to provide comprehensive care for your child.
Dr. Liora Benichou and her team create a warm, family-centered environment where your child’s dental needs are our top priority. From preventive cleanings to orthodontic evaluations, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Teething rash is a natural part of your baby’s growth journey. With the right care and preventive measures, you can ensure your little one stays comfortable and happy.
Remember, this phase won’t last forever—better days (and healthy teeth!) are just around the corner. To learn more about pediatric dental care and ensure your child’s oral health, visit My Teeth and Me in New York, NY.
You have a lot more freedom as a teenager than you did as a young child. You also have a lot more responsibilities, and one of your jobs is to take care of your teeth. Develop and maintain good dental habits now so you can have great dental health for life!
Tooth Decay
As a teenager, you risk tooth decay, or dental cavities, if you are not careful. In fact, 59% of adolescents aged 12 to 19 have at least one cavity, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. the doctor and our staff recommend keeping your teeth strong and healthy by brushing at least twice a day and flossing every day.
If you suspect that you have tooth decay, do not be embarrassed. Instead, ask your parents to bring you to Liora Benichou to get it looked at. When you do not treat your dental cavities, they can turn into more serious problems. A severely damaged tooth may need to be treated with a root canal or even an extraction.
You can take easy steps to prevent tooth decay when you are at school or hanging out with your friends. Carry a bottle of water around with you so you can take a sip after you eat any kind of food. Choose water or milk instead of soda or sports drinks, and if you chew gum, select a sugar-free flavor.
Other Oral Health Concerns
You can probably think of many reasons why you should not smoke or use tobacco. Your oral health is another one. Tobacco gives you bad breath and stains your teeth yellow. It also increases your risk for gum disease and cancer of the mouth. Smoking even slows the speed of healing after you have dental procedures done.
Here are a few more tips that can keep your mouth attractive and healthy during your teen years.
You only get one set of permanent teeth in your life, so get in the habit of taking care of them now!
Sealants provide a thin coating over molars that can be a powerful tool to protect your child’s teeth from decay. This simple and painless solution can be applied in a matter of minutes by our team at Liora Benichou, forming a protective shield and avoiding costly and painful cavities or other forms of tooth decay later.
The Causes of Tooth Decay
Our mouths are routinely filled with germs and bacteria. Some of these bacteria can be helpful in converting the foods we eat (especially sugars in the food) into acids that our bodies use to break down food. However, when we eat too much sugar, the excess acids can cause cavities and other decay in teeth.
Molars (our chewing teeth) are prime sites for tooth decay because they have rough surfaces with lots of little grooves where small food particles and germs find places to stay for extended periods of time. If you can prevent tooth decay in your child’s teeth now, you may be able to avoid treatments for decaying teeth later in life—costly and painful procedures like crowns and fillings.
Protecting Against Decay
A comprehensive plan for mouth care can protect against tooth decay. This plan should include:
On their own, each of these activities is good but does not provide enough protection against decay. Fluoride is best for protecting the smooth surfaces of our front teeth, but may not provide enough of a shield for our rough, uneven back teeth. In addition, toothbrush bristles may not get to all the tiny food particles and germs in our mouths. For these reasons, sealants are the recommended preventive measure for molars in the fight against germs.
Who needs sealants, and when?
The best time to get a sealant is when your child’s adult teeth are just growing in. Between the ages of about five and seven, children grow their first permanent molar teeth, and they grow a second set of permanent molars between the ages of 11 and 14. Sealants placed on these teeth as soon as they grow in will be most effective in preventing tooth decay before it occurs.
If your child still has his or her baby teeth, the doctor may recommend sealants for teeth that are especially rough or uneven and may be prone to tooth decay. When your child loses his or her baby teeth, we will apply new sealants to the permanent teeth when they grow in. In addition, our team may recommend sealants for adults in special cases; for example, if a previously placed sealant falls out, if you never had sealants put in as a child, or if your teeth are prone to decay and the preventive treatment may help.
Talk to us during your next visit at our New York, New York office to learn more about how dental sealants can help protect your child’s teeth.
Whether you already miss the sun’s bright rays, or can’t wait for some cool, crisp weather and colorful leaves, summer is making way for fall. And the change of seasons might mean it’s time for some adjustments to your dental care routine.
Fall’s in the Air, and You Can Feel It
You might enjoy the brisk weather and the cool autumn breezes, but you’d enjoy fall much more without the tooth sensitivity that cold weather can bring. Sensitivity can be the sign of a cracked tooth, gum disease, or even something as simple as too-energetic brushing. If you’re experiencing sensitivity outdoors or with hot and cold foods, don’t give up your nature walks and hot cider! Give the doctor a call, and we’ll get to the root of your problem.
Fall Sports
The baseball mitts, surfboards, and water skis have been retired for the year, but that won’t stop you from enjoying exercise and team sports. And while you’re keeping your body healthy, remember to keep your teeth and jaws healthy as well. A mouth guard is an essential piece of equipment for any autumn contact sport like football or soccer, and is also a good idea for biking, skateboarding, and other physical activities where a fall or a collision is a possibility.
Fall Feasts
‘Tis the season for sugary Halloween treats, bountiful Thanksgiving desserts, and those over-the-top holiday lattes. By all means, celebrate the season. And celebrate your dental health (and your overall health) as well by enjoying these treats in moderation.
Why not take this opportunity to explore some of autumn’s more nutritious seasonal offerings? Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, carrots, pumpkins, and apples are part of a fall harvest of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, calcium, and other nutrients that help keep our teeth and gums their healthiest. (And if the pumpkins and apples make their way into pies, no one will complain.)
Fall Semester
Many schools require a dental exam before the start of the academic year. If you haven’t made an appointment for your child, now’s the time to do it! And don’t forget a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar. Nothing starts a school year off better than entering the classroom with a bright, healthy smile.
And don’t forget to call our New York, New York office for your own regular checkup if it’s that time of year. Spring, summer, winter, fall—it’s always the right season for taking care of your dental health!
Unless you work for an insurance company, you probably do not spend a lot of your time studying all the terminology that dental insurance companies use to describe the treatments and services they cover. If it seems pretty confusing, here are some of the most commonly used dental insurance terms and what they mean.
A Basic Glossary
Annual Maximum–The maximum amount your policy will pay per year for care at Liora Benichou. It is often divided into costs per individual, and (if you are on a family plan) per family
Co-payment– An amount the patient pays at the time of service before receiving care, and before the insurance pays for any portion of the care
Covered Services– A list of all the treatments, services, and procedures the insurance policy will cover under your contract
Deductible– A dollar amount that you must pay out of pocket each year before the insurance company will pay for any treatments or procedures
Diagnostic/Preventive Services– A category of treatments or procedures that most insurance will cover before the deductible which may include services like preventive appointments with the doctor, X-rays, and evaluations
In-Network and Out-of-Network– A list of providers that are part of an insurance company’s “network”
Lifetime Maximum– The maximum amount that an insurance plan will pay toward care for an individual or family (if you have an applicable family plan)
Limitations/Exclusions– A list of all the procedures an insurance policy does not cover
Member/Insured/Covered Person/Beneficiary/Enrollee– Someone who is eligible to receive benefits under an insurance plan
Provider– the doctor or other oral health specialist who provides treatment
Waiting Period– A specified amount of time that the patient must be enrolled with an insurance plan before it will pay for certain treatments; waiting periods may be waived if you were previously enrolled in another dental insurance plan with a different carrier
There are many different insurance options available, so you need to find out exactly what your insurance covers. It’s important to review your plan with a qualified insurance specialist. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the policy so you can understand it fully and be confident that you know everything your policy covers the next time you come in for treatment at our New York, New York office.
Your baby’s first smiles are precious—and you want to make sure those precious smiles are as healthy as they are beautiful. One of the most important ways to protect your child’s dental health is by preventing early childhood caries, or cavities.
You might be thinking, “Tooth decay? Babies?” Yes, babies and toddlers can get cavities, too. Studies suggest that over a quarter of children between the ages of two and five already have some form of tooth decay.
The bacteria that cause tooth decay are passed from person to person. Cavity-causing bacteria use the sugar and starches in our diets to produce acids—acids which attack the tooth’s enamel, breaking down its hard mineral structure until cavities form. Because baby teeth have thinner enamel coatings than adult teeth, they are especially vulnerable to tooth decay.
You can start your child on the path to a lifetime of healthy smiles by being proactive about cavity prevention during your baby’s first 12 months.
Because cavity-causing oral bacteria are transmitted from person to person, doctors and dentists suggest that you don’t share a spoon with your baby, or put a pacifier in your mouth to clean it. And it’s a good idea to rinse toys used by other children with clean water before giving them to your child.
Babies generally need a feeding before bedtime to ensure that they get all the nutrition their growing bodies need. But when a young child sleeps with a bottle, liquids pool in the mouth, exposing tiny teeth to these liquids throughout the night and preventing the natural flow of saliva from washing food particles away.
Bring your child’s happy day to a close with a lullaby, a bedtime story, a good night kiss, or whatever makes your baby feel comforted and loved—and take the bottle with you when you tiptoe out of the room.
How do parents make sure their babies get the nutrition they need without giving cavity-causing bacteria the fuel they need? With a healthy diet. Breast milk and formula have healthy nutrients, carbs, and sugars which are necessary for baby’s growth and development. Sugar water, sweet juices, and sodas—don’t.
Added sugars provide a feast for cavity-causing bacteria, and the more your child is exposed to them throughout the day, the greater the risk of tooth decay. Talk to the doctor for the healthiest drinks for your baby’s bottle or sippy cup.
Dentists recommend cleaning your baby’s gums even before teeth begin to arrive. After washing your hands, using a clean, damp, soft cloth or gauze pad to gently wipe the gum surfaces to remove bacteria and food.
As soon as the first tooth appears, it’s time to start gentle brushing. Use a baby-sized toothbrush to gently clean the erupting teeth once in the morning and once after the last feeding of the day. And as soon as two baby teeth touch, it’s time to talk about flossing.
Not sure about baby-friendly tooth care products, toothpastes, and techniques? Talk to the doctor! Learn about cleaning little gums, baby-size brushes, when to begin using fluoride toothpaste and how much toothpaste to use, when to brush, and when to start flossing.
The ideal time for your child’s first visit to our New York, New York office is sometime between the appearance of your child’s first tooth and your child’s first birthday. It’s a gentle way to introduce your baby to the dental team who will be caring for those little smiles for many years to come.
During that first visit, your child’s dentist will check tooth and jaw development. There will be a child-friendly examination to look for plaque buildup or any signs of early decay, such as white spots on tooth enamel. You can talk about any concerns you might have and learn the best ways to prevent tooth decay with proactive dental care for healthy teeth and gums.
Why are we so concerned about baby teeth? Decayed teeth can cause pain and self-consciousness. And more, those tiny teeth have big responsibilities. Baby teeth influence your child’s speech development. They promote healthy eating and chewing habits. Baby teeth serve as placeholders to make sure that your child’s adult teeth will be able to erupt just where they should.
Your baby’s first smiles are precious. And when you’re proactive with early dental care, you’re preparing your child for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
One question our team at Liora Benichou hear all the time is, “When should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?”
You should begin regular cleanings even before your baby has teeth. After each breast feeding (or bottle-feeding) use a clean, damp washcloth to gently rub your baby’s gum tissue. You may wrap the material around one finger to make it easier to remove any food bits from your baby’s mouth.
When your baby’s first tooth comes in, switch to a baby toothbrush. Look for special baby toothbrushes in your drugstore; they have just a few bristles and are very soft. There are even brushes shaped like finger puppets that fit over the tip of your pointer finger! All you need at this point is water (no toothpaste yet).
After a few more teeth appear, you may start using toothpaste, but you only need a tiny bit, and make sure it doesn’t contain fluoride for the first two years. From the beginning, have your little one practice spitting the toothpaste out after brushing. That way, he or she will already have the good habit of spitting when you switch to fluoride toothpaste, which should never be swallowed.
If you have any questions about caring for your baby’s teeth, or to schedule an appointment at our convenient New York, New York office, please contact Liora Benichou.
It’s a busy time of year. Book lists! Supplies! New clothes! (How did they outgrow those shoes already?) And while you’re preparing your family’s list of back-to-school necessities, here are a few essential reminders to help your child begin the school year with a healthy smile.
It never hurts to review the basics before the start of the school year, and that holds true for dental care as well! Make sure your child is brushing two minutes twice a day, and using floss or another interdental tool to clean between the teeth. If his toothbrush has been in use since the end of the last school year, it’s probably time to replace it. Bristles are at their best for about three months—after that, they become frayed and worn, and can’t remove plaque as effectively.
If your child is going to school with braces for the first time, send her off with the tools she needs. A travel-sized toothbrush and tube of toothpaste are perfect for a quick brushing after lunch, while dental floss and a threader or dental picks will take care of any after-lunch particles lurking in brackets and wires. Orthodontic wax is a great product to have on hand if a wire or bracket is causing irritation. If your child uses clear aligners or a retainer, make sure a protective case is always close by, ready to use every time the appliance is removed. And it’s a good idea to include the number of your dentist and orthodontist in her contacts in case of emergency.
If your school requires a dental exam before the start of classes, be sure to make your appointment at our New York, New York office now! Regular checkups with the doctor are vital for preventing small problems from becoming bigger ones, and a professional cleaning will remove the plaque even careful brushing can miss.
A positive, confident start can set the tone for the academic year, so your homework might include monitoring summer reading, providing required supplies, and making sure your child is well-rested and ready to go. You can also help your child to a positive, confident start by monitoring brushing habits, providing the necessary tools for appliance-wearers, and making sure your child is up-to-date with dental exams and cleanings. Because entering the classroom with a beaming, healthy smile—that’s an A+ way to begin the school year!
