Nanny Joe

Q: How can i comfort my 4 month old that is teething?

A:

Q: My baby is 5 months old and she has 1 visible tooth.How do i care for this tooth?Can i use toothpaste?

A:

1.Wipe your baby’s gums daily with a clean, damp washcloth or gauze,

    or

2. Brush them gently with a soft, infant-sized toothbrush and water (no toothpaste!). As soon as the first tooth appears, brush them with water.

3. Toothpaste is OK to use on your child’s teeth once he or she gets old enough to spit it out – usually around age 3. Choose one with fluoride and use only a pea-sized amount or less in younger children. Don’t let your child swallow the toothpaste or eat it out of the tube because an overdose of fluoride can be harmful for children.

4.By the time all your baby’s teeth are in, it’s a good idea to brush your child’s teeth at least twice a day, and especially after meals.

5. Another important tip for preventing tooth decay: don’t let your baby fall asleep with a bottle. The milk or juice can pool in her mouth and cause tooth decay and plaque.

*The American Dental Association recommends that children see a dentist by age 1, when six to eight teeth are in place, to spot any potential problems and advise parents about preventive care.