Newborns may develop a white coating on their tongues, which can be caused by leftover milk or sometimes due to oral thrush. Cleaning your newborn’s tongue is a gentle process that helps maintain good oral hygiene. However, it’s important to use safe and soft methods since a newborn’s mouth is delicate. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to clean newborn’s tongue.
Materials You Will Need:
- Clean, soft cloth or gauze
- Warm, sterile water
- A soft, clean finger or baby toothbrush (optional)
Step 1: Wash Your Hands
Before you begin, make sure your hands are thoroughly cleaned.
Use Soap and Water: Wash your hands with soap and water to avoid transferring germs or bacteria to your baby’s mouth.
Dry Your Hands: Use a clean towel to dry your hands completely before starting the cleaning process.
Step 2: Prepare the Cloth or Gauze
You’ll need a soft, clean cloth or sterile gauze to wipe your newborn’s tongue.
Dip the Cloth in Warm Water: Dip a piece of soft cloth or gauze into a small bowl of warm, sterile water. Ensure the water is not too hot, as your baby’s mouth is sensitive.
Wring Out Excess Water: Gently squeeze out any excess water so that the cloth is damp, not dripping.
Step 3: Position Your Baby
Make sure your baby is comfortable and calm before you begin cleaning their tongue.
Hold Your Baby Securely: Place your baby in your lap or on a comfortable surface. You can support their head with one hand while cleaning with the other.
Stay Calm and Gentle: Talk to your baby softly to keep them relaxed during the process. A calm environment helps avoid any fussiness.
Step 4: Clean the Tongue
Gently wipe your baby’s tongue to remove milk residue or other buildup.
Open the Baby’s Mouth: Gently open your baby’s mouth by pressing lightly on their chin or cheeks.
Wipe the Tongue: Use the damp cloth or gauze to gently wipe the surface of your baby’s tongue. Wipe in a circular motion or sweep from the back of the tongue to the front.
Check for Thrush: If you notice persistent white patches that don’t come off with wiping, it could be oral thrush, a fungal infection that may need medical attention.
Step 5: Clean the Gums and Inside of the Cheeks (Optional)
You can also clean your baby’s gums and cheeks as part of good oral hygiene.
Wipe the Gums: Use the same cloth or gauze to gently wipe your baby’s gums in a circular motion.
Clean the Cheeks: Gently wipe the inside of your baby’s cheeks to remove any milk residue.
Step 6: Repeat Regularly
Make this a regular practice to ensure your baby’s mouth stays clean.
Once or Twice Daily: You can clean your baby’s tongue once or twice a day, typically after feeding sessions.
Observe Any Changes: Keep an eye on your baby’s tongue for any unusual changes, such as persistent white patches or redness, and consult a pediatrician if needed.
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