Teething cookies are not recommended because they have sugar in them and
can cause cavities.
How long does it last?
Children usually have their first 20 teeth by the time they are 2 1/2 to
3 years old.
How can dental problems be prevented?
Clean your baby's mouth within the first few days after birth.
After every feeding, wipe her gums with a damp cloth.
Once the baby has any teeth, use a soft bristle, small toothbrush to clean
them. Ask your doctor if you should use toothpaste.
If your baby gets cavities, her teeth could fall out too early, leaving
gaps where her permanent teeth might come in wrong.
You should take your baby to the dentist when she is 1 year old.
Problems can result from babies nursing from a bottle of milk, formula,
sugar water, or fruit juice while resting (such as at night or during a nap).
The liquids pool around the child's teeth and can cause decay. If your baby
rests better while sucking on a bottle, fill it only with water.
Never dip a pacifier in honey or sugar.
Your child should have regular dental check-ups beginning at age 1.
When should I call the doctor?
Call your doctor if your baby is very cranky and you can't soothe her.
Call your doctor if nothing seems to ease her teething pain.
Call your doctor if your child has a fever.
Call the doctor if you have questions or concerns about your child's treatment.
Quick Answers
Teething is when your baby's first teeth start to come in.
It usually begins between 4 to 7 months old.
Teething may be painful. It may cause increased drooling and the gums may
be sore and swollen.
Chewing on a teething ring or a cold, wet washcloth can help ease pain.
Children usually have their first 20 teeth by the time they are 2 1/2 to
3 years old
Clean your baby's mouth within the first few days after birth. Wipe her
gums with a damp cloth. Brush her teeth as soon as they come in.
Call your doctor if your baby is very cranky and you can't soothe her.
References
ADA. Frequently Asked Questions: Infants and Children. 2001 July 09 (cited
2002 February 18). URL: http://www.ada.org/public/topics/diet.html
Ho W. Teething Tots. KidsHealth. 2001 April (cited 2002 February 18). URL:
http://kidshealth.org/parent/general/teeth/teething.html
The Wisdom Tooth. Teething Trouble. (cited 2002 February 18). URL: http://www.umanitoba.ca/outreach/wisdomtooth/teething.htm
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