Pharmacy Corner - Teething - Management Strategies

Pharmacy Corner

Colic and Teething: Irritable, crying, fussy baby and it’s not a fever! Teething - Management Strategies

6. How do I take care of my baby’s gums and teeth?¹⁵

Age	Method
Birth to 12 months	Wipe baby’s gums twice a day with soft, clean damp cloth Brush baby teeth at least once a day (usually at bedtime) with a soft bristle toothbrush Do not sweeten a soother No bottles in bed with milk, formula or juice
1-2 years	Take your baby to their 1^st dentist appointment by 12 months Brush teeth daily with non-fluoridated toothpaste Limit soother use Try to switch to regular cup for all drinks Check for signs of tooth decay once a month: chalky-white or brown spots on the teeth or on the gum lines
3-4 years	Use “2 for 2” technique: brushing twice a day for two minutes each time Start using fluoride toothpaste (pea size): brush and spit rather than swallow Brush at the same time as your child Take your baby to doctor or dentist if they continue to suck their thumbs as permanent teeth start to appear
Everyone	Wash hands before and after brushing teeth Rinse toothbrushes with water after brushing Replace toothbrushes every few months or when the bristles become flattened Between meals, quench your child’s thirst with water. Do not offer candy, dried fruit, and sugared drinks or juices Take your child for regular dental visits (every 6 months or the suggestion by your dentist)

Rule of two

Wipe your baby’s gum twice a day
Brush your baby’s teeth twice a day for two minutes each time.

7. What are some ways to help with teething? ^14,18

Rub the gums with:
- clean finger
- damp washcloth
- back of cold spoon
Offer something to bite and chew on:
- teething rings made of firm rubber
- something hard, smooth and clean (e.g. frozen facecloth)
- NO small parts on them that could break off and cause child to choke
- NO teething biscuits (increases the risk of cavities)

Keep the teething items cool:
- Cold washcloth
- Chilled teething ring (not frozen)
- Cold foods
- Avoid using very cold items
Dry the drool:
- Clean cloth to dry the chin (prevents skin irritation)
- Use absorbent bed sheets
- Consider applying a moisturizer to areas around the mouth

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