Babies and Dental Decay
Kissing Babies
Kissing babies on the mouth can transfer the decay-producing bacteria from an adult to a baby. Rinse comforter (dummy) thoroughly with warm water to clean. do not place in your mouth!
Teething
Baby's teeth usually start to break through the gums from 4 months onwards. Don't be too concerned if your baby's teeth are "early" or "late" to erupt.Teething babies are often irritable with sore or tender gums. They also appear more susceptible to infections during teething. You may find them pulling at their ears, which may be a sign of teething or an ear infection. If your baby is seen continually pulling their ears, please consult your doctor.
Nursing caries
First teeth can develop decay, if they're exposed to any liquid containing sugars (even milk) for long periods of time. This is most frequently seen when a baby falls asleep with a bottle in their mouth and the bottle isn't subsequently removed.
BEWARE : If you notice brown spots or teeth that appear to grow malformed, consult your dentist for advice
Finger Sucking and Dummies
Thumb and finger sucking is a common and natural habit for infants
and small children. If you decide to use a dummy (comforter) with your child, remember:
The period of time and the way in which your child sucks their thumb or fingers, is an important determinant as to whether these habits will affect your child's teeth. It is preferable to stop these habits well before the permanent teeth erupt.
The dentists at Camp Hill Dental can give simple advice on methods to help stop these habits and are able to determine whether your child's teeth will be affected by thumb/finger sucking. Early intervention may save you from extensive orthodontic correction later in life!
Anthony has a gap between his teeth, called an open bite. This was caused by fairly constant use of the dummy at night. See how the back teeth meet and the front teeth are apart. Mum and Anthony decided to give up using the dummy and there was subsequently a great improvement 6 months later.