Early Care for Children
Early Care for Children
Early dental care is essential in establishing and maintaining optimal oral health in children. In our office, we suggest dental visits when the first tooth erupts.
While it is true that baby teeth are only in the mouth for a short period of time, they play a vital role:
- They reserve space for the permanent teeth.
- They give the face a normal appearance.
- They aid in the development of clear speech.
- They enable the child to chew food properly.
- They help give a healthy start to permanent teeth.
- Clean your baby’s gums with a fresh, wet gauze pad or washcloth after every feeding.
- When teeth start to appear, brush your child’s teeth with a child’s size toothbrush and plain water.
- Begin flossing when at least two teeth begin to touch.
- Supervise brushing
- Choose nutritious foods.
Oral Milestones in Your Child’s Development
0-6 Months:
Sucking is the first essential movement that grows the jaw. The action of sucking is nature’s way of stimulating, activating, and coordinating all the muscles of the face for overall healthy development.
4-5 Months:
Chewing is the next milestone to be activated. Chew toys are perfect for this age group before solids start at 6 months.
6+ Months:
Teething should begin at approximately 6 months however it varies. For boys, in general, teeth eruption occurs later than girls.
10 Months:
This should be in place by 9-12 months and ensures that all food, drinks, and saliva are able to be swallowed properly and pushed forward.
12 Months:
With some spillage, drinking from a cup should be expected by 12 months. Weaning from a bottle is recommended by 12-15 months.
2 Years: By age 2, the jaws, lips, cheeks, and tongue move independently of each other. A child should be able to manage most foods in bite-sized pieces and chew with lips closed.
Sucking is the first essential movement that grows the jaw. The action of sucking is nature’s way of stimulating, activating, and coordinating all the muscles of the face for overall healthy development.
4-5 Months:
Chewing is the next milestone to be activated. Chew toys are perfect for this age group before solids start at 6 months.
6+ Months:
Teething should begin at approximately 6 months however it varies. For boys, in general, teeth eruption occurs later than girls.
10 Months:
This should be in place by 9-12 months and ensures that all food, drinks, and saliva are able to be swallowed properly and pushed forward.
12 Months:
With some spillage, drinking from a cup should be expected by 12 months. Weaning from a bottle is recommended by 12-15 months.
2 Years: By age 2, the jaws, lips, cheeks, and tongue move independently of each other. A child should be able to manage most foods in bite-sized pieces and chew with lips closed.
