From sleep-training and feeding to changing diapers and vaccinating, parenting an infant is not meant to be easy. While most parents focus on their baby's basic health and wellness, their oral health requires some attention, too. Even though you may be surprised to learn, your baby's mouth, gums, and teeth are important. With this guide, you will understand why and when dental checkups are needed for your infant.

Development

Your baby's mouth is the foundation for their teeth. If they have not developed any teeth yet, you should still inspect their mouth and gums carefully for signs of distress.

Most dentists recommend a first dental checkup by the time your baby turns 1 years or age OR 6 months after their first tooth has erupted. This will ensure the teeth are developing in the proper, healthy manner, reducing your child's risk of dental issues in the future.

Commitment

Beginning dental checkups and oral hygiene early is beneficial for a few reasons. While it will help prevent dental issues all through your child's life, regular checkups will also help your child become comfortable with dental care. This comfort will follow them throughout their childhood, teen, and adult years.

By making a commitment to start and continue regular dental care, your child will understand the importance of their mouth, teeth, and gums, ensuring they have a healthy and appealing smile all through the life.

Prevention

Most parents believe infants are too young for dental care. However, starting early can help prevent serious dental issues.

Cavities and tooth decay are common problems many children experience and these issues could have been prevented with early diagnosis and prevention.

Your dentist will help teach a few mistakes you may be making, which can increase the risk of cavities and decay. Do not allow your baby to fall asleep with a bottle of milk or juice, for instance, since this allows residue to build up inside the mouth and gums, which can lead to cavities and decay.

Also, even if your child does not have any teeth or only has a few teeth, you should still practice oral hygiene. Use a dental-grade pediatric wipe or a piece of gauze to clean the interior of your baby's mouth and any teeth in the morning and at night.

Proper understanding and professional care will help your child develop a healthy and appealing smile. This guide will ensure you know the importance of early pediatric dental care, even for your infant.