You may confuse cleaning the oral cavity with cleaning teeth. Although these terms are in use synonymously, their meanings have slight differences. A newborn baby has no teeth, yet its mouth needs cleaning just like any other regular person. But how to clean a baby’s tongue anyways?
Well, this definitely does not require a chug of water since we are talking about babies. Below is a step wise guide to help you.
How to Clean A Baby’s Tongue?
Here is a step-wise guide for you to remember when you clean white stuff from the baby’s tongue:
- Wash your hands; it is very important to ensure their cleanliness.
- Step 2 takes a small piece of cloth or gauze and wrap it around your finger.
- Moisten the gauze wrapped on the finger with warm water.
- Hold the baby and use another hand to open its mouth.
- Start gently rubbing your baby’s tongue with the gauze finger to clean it.
If you do not want to use gauze or cloth, silicone finger brushes for them are also available. It has a finger shape and easily fits on the finger.
How Often To Clean a Newborn Baby’s Tongue?
It is not that different than adults. Some people say it is better to clean your baby’s tongue after every feed. However, for some women, that is next to impossible, so twice a day is also adequate.
When Should You Start Cleaning it?
Usually, babies take around 6 months until they start growing teeth. However, you are not supposed to wait it out. Cleaning starts as soon as they take their feed, much before the tooth actually grows.
Can You Clean The Back Of a Newborn Baby’s Tongue?
It does not matter where you plan to clean. Every part, be it back or front, you clean your baby’s tongue in the same way with a gauze cloth.
How To Successfully Introduce Toothbrush and Toothpaste?
It is not possible for babies or toddlers to clean their teeth independently. Therefore it is beneficial that you supervise them with this routine until they reach 5-6 years. Some tips that might help:
- Put a pea-size amount of toothpaste on a damp toothbrush.
- Explain by showing your child how to brush teeth; do it yourself first and then ask to copy.
- As you brush their teeth, try to explain what you are doing and the results.
- After a few tries, let go of them and allow them to do it without your help.
Conclusion
Keep a keen eye on brushing and floss of your children. They are young and need your guidance. Regular checkups and dental cleaning will ensure apt oral cavity health. Call one of our dentists at Mission Bend Family Dentistry at (832) 300-8444 to schedule an appointment today.