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Taking Care of Tiny Teeth

June 12, 2024 Infant

Teething is a big milestone for babies. Some babies start getting teeth around 3-4 months old, while others may not until they’re 6-12 months or even a bit later. It’s smart to start taking care of their teeth early to avoid future problems, build good habits, and help them get used to having their mouths cleaned.

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Teething is a BIG milestone

Taking care of baby teeth is important, even though they’re temporary. Sugars in breastmilk, formula, and other foods can lead to cavities if not cleaned off teeth.

Tooth decay and cavities can be painful and cause problems with eating and weight gain.

Here’s what you can do to help take care of those tiny teeth:

Baby teething with teething ring
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WIPE:

After every feeding, use a damp washcloth to gently wipe your baby’s gums. This helps remove any milk or formula residue and bacteria.

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BRUSH:

Once your baby’s first tooth pops up, use a small toothbrush with a tiny bit of fluoride toothpaste to brush it twice a day.

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HAVE FUN:

Some kids don’t like brushing their teeth. Try making it a game, listening to a song, or brushing together so they can learn by watching you.

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SUPERVISE:

As your child grows, help them try to brush their own teeth. Watch to make sure they clean all areas of their mouth and keep helping them until they can do a good job on their own.

Taking care of baby teeth
Baby teething with teething ring
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DENTIST:

Take your child to the dentist after their first tooth comes in. The dentist might suggest fluoride treatment to prevent cavities.

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PREVENT DECAY:

To help prevent harmful tooth decay:

  • Avoid giving sugary drinks or snacks.
  • Don’t let your baby fall asleep with a bottle.
  • Switch to using a cup by your baby’s first birthday.
  • Limit pacifier use by age 2 years.

Premature babies need extra care because their teeth may not have strong enamel. Also, medications they may have received in the NICU can affect their teeth. Talk to your baby’s dentist about their needs.

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Make brushing and flossing part of your child’s daily routine for a happy, healthy smile!

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Side-Lying Hold

  1. For the right breast, lie on your right side with your baby facing you.
  2. Pull your baby close. Your baby’s mouth should be level with your nipple.
  3. In this position, you can cradle your baby’s back with your left arm and support yourself with your right arm and/or pillows.
  4. Keep loose clothing and bedding away from your baby.
  5. Reverse for the left breast.

This hold is useful when:

  • You had a C-section
  • You want to rest while baby feeds
  • You are breastfeeding in the middle of the night
  • You and your baby are comfortable in this position
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Cross-Cradle Hold

  1. For the right breast, use your left arm to hold your baby’s head at your right breast and baby’s body toward your left side. A pillow across your lap can help support your left arm.
  2. Gently place your left hand behind your baby’s ears and neck, with your thumb and index finger behind each ear and your palm between baby’s shoulder blades. Turn your baby’s body toward yours so your tummies are touching.
  3. Hold your breast as if you are squeezing a sandwich. To protect your back, avoid leaning down to your baby. Instead, bring your baby to you.
  4. As your baby’s mouth opens, push gently with your left palm on baby’s head to help them latch on. Make sure you keep your fingers out of the way.
  5. Reverse for the left breast.

This hold is useful when:

  • Your baby is premature
  • Your baby has a weak suck
  • Your baby needs help to stay latched
  • Your baby needs extra head support
  • You and your baby are comfortable in this position
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Clutch or “Football” Hold

  1. For the right breast, hold your baby level, facing up, at your right side.
  2. Put your baby’s head near your right nipple and support their back and legs under your right arm.
  3. Hold the base of your baby’s head with your right palm. A pillow underneath your right arm can help support your baby’s weight.
  4. To protect your back, avoid leaning down to your baby. Bring baby to you instead.
  5. Reverse for the left breast.

This hold is useful when:

  • You had a C-section
  • You have large breasts
  • You have flat or inverted nipples
  • You have a strong milk let-down
  • You are breastfeeding twins
  • Your baby likes to feed in an upright position
  • Your baby has reflux
  • You and your baby are comfortable in this position
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Cradle Hold

  1. For the right breast, cradle your baby with your right arm. Your baby will be on their left side across your lap, facing you at nipple level.
  2. Your baby’s head will rest on your right forearm with your baby’s back along your inner arm and palm.
  3. Turn your baby’s tummy toward your tummy. Your left hand is free to support your breast, if needed. Pillows can help support your arm and elbow.
  4. To protect your back, avoid leaning down to your baby. Instead, bring your baby to you.
  5. Reverse for the left breast.

This hold is useful when:

  • Your baby needs help latching on
  • You and your baby are comfortable in this position
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Laid-Back Hold

  1. Lean back on a pillow with your baby’s tummy touching yours and their head at breast level. Some moms find that sitting up nearly straight works well. Others prefer to lean back and lie almost flat.
  2. You can place your baby’s cheek near your breast, or you may want to use one hand to hold your breast near your baby. It’s up to you and what you think feels best.
  3. Your baby will naturally find your nipple, latch, and begin to suckle.

This hold is useful when:

  • Your baby is placed on your chest right after birth
  • You have a strong milk let-down
  • You have large breasts
  • You and your baby are comfortable in this position