CATEGORY 86 AUSTRALASIAN DENTIST CLINICAL Teething Most babies are born without teeth, and it typically takes about 6–9 months for the first milk teeth to appear. As these teeth break through the gums, babies often experience discomfort, mild swelling, and occasional slight fever. While this is a normal part of teething, it’s important to approach this process carefully to ensure your baby’s safety. A common mistake is overusing anaesthetic gels, alcohol-based solutions, or medications to eliminate discomfort. Teething is a natural process, and overmedication can be harmful. Instead, consider these safer options: u Use a teething ring. Teething rings can help relieve your baby’s discomfort while stimulating their sensory and motor development. Curaprox teething rings are designed to soothe gums with safe materials and include visual and tactile features, as well as a built-in rattle to engage your baby. u Wipe your baby’s face. Excessive drooling during teething can irritate their skin, so gently clean their face with a damp cloth. u Avoid medication unless necessary. Soothe and comfort your baby naturally. Only use medication after consulting a pediatrician if symptoms like fever or diarrhea persist. The Curaprox Teething Ring offers the following benefits: u Relieves discomfort caused by teething. u Stimulates sensory and motor skills with varied textures, colours, and sounds. u Includes a built-in toothbrush to introduce brushing. u Safe, toxin-free, and biofunctional. u Compatible with the Curaprox Soother Holder to prevent it from falling on the floor. Using Soothers Soothers (or pacifiers) can calm babies, help them sleep better, and reduce anxiety. However, prolonged use may interfere with the proper development of the mouth, jaw, and teeth unless a well-designed soother is used. Key features to look for in a soother include: u Soft silicone to mimic the feel of a nipple. u Flat tips that support the palate and reduce the risk of open bite. u Rounded shapes to prevent misalignment of teeth. u Breathable designs to promote nasal breathing. Soothers come in sizes based on your child’s age, so choose appropriately. Remember that soothers are temporary solutions, not replacements for interaction with parents or caregivers. The Curaprox Soother provides: u Natural-feel soft silicone for comfort and proper swallowing. u A flat tip for healthy palate development. u A rounded shape for correct alignment and reduced pressure on teeth. u Three different sizes tailored for your child’s growth. u Safe, toxin-free materials. Taking Care of Milk Teeth Milk teeth, though temporary, play a critical role in your child’s oral development, as they hold space for adult teeth. The loss of a milk tooth due to decay or injury can affect the positioning of permanent teeth, possibly leading to the need for orthodontic treatment in the future. Challenges for Milk Teeth: Modern diets often include sugary and acidic foods, which can harm milk teeth: u Sugary foods fuel bacteria, leading to tooth decay. u Acidic drinks weaken enamel, especially on fragile milk teeth. u Inconsistent brushing allows decay to progress quickly in children. Your Child’s Oral Health: A Complete Guide Milk teeth are not as strong and durable as adult teeth. However, even before milk teeth appear, there are steps parents can take to support their child’s long-term dental health.
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