Tips to keep tiny teeth healthy

There’s nothing cuter than a bub with little toothy pegs, but of course the whole development of teeth can be another stressful thing for parents of prems.

Studies have shown that premature babies may have an increased risk at developing dental problems such as delayed tooth eruption, enamel hypoplasia, tooth discolouration, palatal groove, and possible increased risk for needing braces.

For premature babies, the extent of the dental problems is dependent on the how early each baby is born and with all babies (prem or not) it can depend on their food habits.

With that in mind, some preemie babies never developing any dental problems at all.

It is important to understand that as soon as baby’s teeth grow they can begin to develop tooth decay and cavities, and like adults their teeth require continual attention and care.

Here are some basic tips at keeping those tiny teeth healthy.

1. For your baby’s first dental care, clean their gums and any emerging teeth with a clean, damp and soft washcloth.

2. Prolonged exposure to the sugar in milk or juice can cause baby bottle tooth decay, so don’t let you baby sleep with a bottle

3. Your baby doesn’t need toothpaste until around 2 years of age. Introducing fluoride toothpaste doesn’t need to be done until your baby reaches two years of age and your toddler understands that it is not to be swallowed.

4. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and brush twice a day and floss once a day when you can (it can end up being a bit of a wrestle).

5. Take your child to the dentist when they turn one and keep up with regular check-ups.

Other sources:

https://handtohold.org/professional-insight-dr-kelsey-bookmyer-dds/

https://monbaby.com/safesleep/all-you-need-to-know-about-preemies-and-teeth/