Although infants have few, if any, teeth, there are a few types of dental conditions that may affect your baby. While most of these problems can be treated at home, sometimes they may require the care of a dentist or other health care professional.
You expect to see nothing but gums when you look into your newborn’s mouth. Although uncommon, some babies are actually born with one or more teeth already in their mouth, called natal teeth. These teeth are often attached to the gum by soft tissue and don’t have a root structure. Natal teeth are most often on the lower gum and may cause irritation to the baby’s tongue or to a nursing mother.
If the teeth are loose enough that they might be accidentally swallowed, Pediatric dentistry dentist may decide to remove the teeth. This is usually done before your baby leaves the hospital.
If the teeth are not removed, clean the teeth and gums with a damp cloth after each feeding. Keep an eye on the teeth and your baby’s gums and tongue to make sure that the teeth are not causing pain. If you notice any redness or pain, call your baby’s doctor.
Most parents are familiar with teething—the process of your baby’s first teeth coming in through the gums at around age 6 months.
Although teething is a normal part of your infant’s development, each baby reacts differently to this stage. While some babies don’t have any symptoms, some common symptoms you may notice include:
1.Acting fussy or irritable;
2.Drooling more than usual;
3.Diarrhea, a fever, or a rash;
4.Having a smaller-than-usual appetite.
Your baby may have sore gums while his or her teeth are starting to come through. You can help soothe sore gums by rubbing a cool spoon, a wet washcloth, or your clean finger over them. Or try offering your baby a chilled teething ring or pacifier. pediatric dentistry doctor or dentist may also suggest a salve to help numb your baby’s gums.
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