When your baby’s first teeth begin to appear, it’s an exciting milestone—but it can also bring discomfort and sleepless nights. Understanding how to care for your child’s gums and new teeth is key to keeping their smile healthy from the very start. The team at Woodbridge Dental Centre shares simple, dentist-approved guidance to help parents through the teething stage with confidence.
Recognizing Teething Symptoms
Teething often begins around six months of age, but timing can vary. You may notice:
- Drooling more than usual
- Swollen or tender gums
- Irritability or fussiness
- Biting on fingers or toys
- Trouble sleeping or feeding
Dr. Sandra Farber, dentist at Woodbridge Dental Centre, explains: “Every child experiences teething differently. Some may barely notice it, while others can be quite uncomfortable. The key is to soothe the gums safely and maintain good oral hygiene even before the first tooth appears.”
Soothing Teething Pain Naturally
If your baby is uncomfortable, try gentle home remedies before turning to medication:
- Offer a clean, chilled (not frozen) teething ring
- Gently massage gums with a clean finger
- Wipe away drool often to prevent rashes
- Give a cool, damp washcloth to chew on
Avoid using numbing gels or products with benzocaine, as they can be harmful to infants.
For ongoing discomfort, a teething pain relief consultation with a kids teething care dentist near you can help ensure there are no hidden issues such as early tooth eruption problems or infection.
Caring for Gums and First Teeth
Good oral care starts before the first tooth emerges. Wipe your baby’s gums daily with a soft, damp cloth. Once teeth appear:
- Use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush
- Brush twice daily with a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice)
- Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle—this can cause early decay
- Encourage drinking water after milk or snacks
Dr. Michael Rouhi, dentist at Woodbridge Dental Centre, advises: “Early cavity prevention begins with simple habits. Cleaning baby teeth daily and bringing your child for their first dental visit for infants by age one helps us catch potential issues early and guide parents on proper home care.”
When to Schedule a Pediatric Dental Checkup
Your child’s first dental appointment sets the foundation for lifelong oral health. At this pediatric dental checkup for toddlers, your dentist will:
- Examine the gums and early teeth
- Check for proper growth and alignment
- Offer fluoride treatment for baby teeth if needed
- Share toddler oral hygiene routine advice tailored to your child’s needs
These early visits also help your child feel comfortable in the dental environment, reducing anxiety for future appointments.
Building Healthy Habits for Life
Teething is the perfect time to begin teaching gentle oral care routines. Turn brushing into a game, sing songs, or let your child hold their toothbrush while you guide them. Encourage healthy snacking with fresh fruits and vegetables rather than sugary treats to support early cavity prevention for kids.
Dr. Farber adds: “By establishing positive habits early—brushing, regular checkups, and choosing tooth-friendly snacks—parents set their children up for strong, healthy smiles that last a lifetime.”
Keep Little Smiles Happy and Pain-Free
From the first drool to the final molar, every stage of your child’s dental growth deserves care and attention. Whether you need children’s dentist support for teething babies or advice on caring for erupting teeth, the friendly team at Woodbridge Dental Centre is here to help your family every step of the way.
Book your pediatric dentist visit in Woodbridge today to protect your child’s smile and make teething a smoother, happier experience.
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