How Do You Keep Your Baby's Teeth Strong?

Posted on 9/1/2025 by NC Pediatric Dentisty

A pediatric dentist examines a calm girl's mouth while her mother watches during a routine dental checkup.

Taking care of your little one's smile starts way before their first visit to my office! Strong, healthy teeth are important for your baby's overall well-being. Let's explore how to help them achieve just that. From the moment those tiny teeth emerge, you can take steps to ensure a lifetime of bright smiles.

The Importance of Baby Teeth

Sometimes, people think that since baby teeth eventually fall out, they're not that important. But that couldn't be further from the truth! Baby teeth, also called primary teeth, are essential for several reasons:

•	Eating: They allow your baby to chew food properly and get the nutrition they need to grow.
•	Speaking: They help your child learn to pronounce words correctly.
•	Guiding Permanent Teeth: They hold space in the jaw for permanent teeth to erupt correctly later on. If a baby tooth is lost too early, the surrounding teeth can shift, leading to crowding or other issues with the permanent teeth.
•	Self-Esteem: A healthy smile can help a child feel confident.

Tips for Keeping Baby Teeth Healthy

Here are some simple yet effective ways to keep your baby's teeth strong and healthy:

•	Start Early: Even before your baby's teeth erupt, gently wipe their gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings. This helps remove bacteria and sugars that can cause problems later.
•	Brush Regularly: Once the first tooth appears, start brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for babies. Use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).
•	Limit Sugary Drinks: Avoid giving your baby sugary drinks like juice or soda. These can contribute to tooth decay. Water and milk are the best options.
•	Don't Share Utensils: Sharing utensils or cleaning a pacifier in your mouth can transfer bacteria to your baby, increasing their risk of developing cavities.
•	Be Mindful of Bedtime Bottles: Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle of milk or juice. The sugars in these drinks can pool around their teeth overnight, leading to decay. If your baby needs a bottle to fall asleep, fill it with water.
•	Healthy Diet: Encourage a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods provide essential nutrients for strong teeth and bones.
•	Watch Out for Sticky Foods: Sticky foods like gummy snacks can cling to teeth and increase the risk of tooth decay. If your child eats these foods, make sure they brush their teeth afterward.
•	Make Brushing Fun: Turn brushing into a fun activity by singing songs or making silly faces. This will help your child develop good oral hygiene habits early on.

When to Schedule the First Dental Visit

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that babies have their first dental visit within six months of the eruption of their first tooth or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. This early visit allows me to assess your baby's oral health, provide guidance on proper oral hygiene, and answer any questions you may have.

Taking care of your baby's teeth from the start sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles. By following these tips, you can help your little one develop strong, healthy teeth and a positive attitude toward dental care.

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About NC Pediatric Dentistry - Expert Kids' Dental Care
NC Pediatric Dentistry offers kid-friendly dental care across NC. We provide fun, safe, and educational experiences for children. Learn more today!
NC Pediatric Dentistry, 202 Williamson Rd. Suite 200, Mooresville, NC 28117 : tbd : ncpediatricdentistry.com : 10/1/2025 : Related Terms: pediatric dentist :

How Do You Keep Your Baby's Teeth Strong?

The Importance of Baby Teeth

Tips for Keeping Baby Teeth Healthy

When to Schedule the First Dental Visit

Smiles from ear-to-ear with locations from here-to-here.

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