Teething

It may be helpful to take them to see the dentist before their first appointment so they are familiar with the environment. 

• Make sure children don’t eat or lick toothpaste from the tube 
• Below the age of 3 years, children only need a smear of toothpaste 

Some useful tips if your child is teething and refusing their second stage protein substitute: 

• Make up the second stage protein substitute with ice cold water, this can help soothe sore gums 
• Use a medicine syringe to give the second stage protein substitute – gently place it to the side of the mouth, preventing the protein substitute or spoon touching tender gums 
• Try to make sure the same people are giving the second stage protein substitute in the same way each day 

^{*Check labels to ensure ingredients are permitted for infants with PKU, or ask your dietitian if you are uncertain.}  

• Brush your child’s teeth twice a day: just before bed and once more during the day. 
• Some children don’t enjoy having their teeth brushed. It is important to persevere. It might be useful to offer a reward chart or incentives as encouragement. 
• Let them see family members brushing their teeth so they know it’s something everyone must do. 
• Brushing you child’s teeth might be easiest when they are sitting  on your knee, with their head resting against your chest. When they are older, they can stand up and tilt their head backwards. 
• Brush the teeth in small circles, covering all the surfaces, and encourage your child to spit the toothpaste out afterwards. There’s no need to rinse with water, as this will wash away the fluoride.