When your baby starts to teethe, you will see signs like red cheeks, sore red gums, them putting their hands and objects into their mouth, or dribbling more than usual.
To help your baby with their teething, try gently massaging their gums with a clean finger. A teething ring can be soothing too.
If your baby dribbles excessively it can lead to their chin, neck and chest becoming chapped or sore. Dribble bibs can be used to stop your baby’s clothes getting wet and can be used to dab the chin/mouth area to stop them staying wet. Change any wet clothing and apply a simple barrier cream to keep the skin soft and smooth.
Once your baby’s first teeth appear, it is important to protect them against decay so that their adult teeth have a chance to fully develop before they come through.
It is never too early to start caring for your baby’s teeth. Start brushing as soon as the first tooth breaks through. Be sure to take your baby to the dentist before the age of one and then for regular dental checks as advised by your dentist.
Breast feeding provides the best nutrition for babies.
From six months of age, introduce drinking from a free-flow cup and from age one year discourage feeding from a bottle.
Sugar should not be added to weaning foods or drinks.
Once your baby is eating solid foods, choose healthy and nutritious foods and drinks, keeping sugary food and drinks to a minimum as sugar is the main cause of tooth decay.
As soon as teeth erupt in your baby’s mouth, brush them twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste. Brush last thing at night and on one other occasion. Use toothpaste containing at least 1000 parts per million (ppm) fluoride and use only a smear of toothpaste.
Use sugar-free medicines.
Emergency сontact