The development and eruption of third molars, commonly known as wisdom teeth, present a unique set of clinical and physiological challenges for young adults. For female patients, these dental milestones are frequently complicated by systemic biological factors, particularly hormonal fluctuations. Understanding the intricate interaction between reproductive hormones, pain perception, and surgical outcomes is essential for optimising dental management and timing necessary clinical interventions. Because the oral cavity contains highly sensitive hormone receptors, women often experience distinct periodontal symptoms that correlate directly with their endocrine cycles, making regular monitoring crucial.

Hormonal Influences on Oral Tissues

The female body experiences significant fluctuations in sex steroid hormones-primarily estrogen and progesterone-during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause. These systemic hormonal changes exert a direct, measurable influence on the tissues within the oral cavity. Elevated progesterone levels during specific phases of the month increase the permeability and vascularisation of the periodontal structures. This physiological shift can significantly exacerbate the localised inflammatory response to plaque, debris, and underlying dental issues.

For women experiencing impacted or erupting wisdom teeth, these cyclic changes can result in periodic flare-ups of gingival tenderness and swelling around the third molars. This condition, known as pericoronitis, involves the inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding the crown of a partially erupted tooth. This heightened tissue sensitivity means that underlying dental issues, which might remain entirely asymptomatic during phases of low hormonal activity, can suddenly become painful and problematic when hormone levels spike.

Pain Perception and the Menstrual Cycle

Neurological sensitivity and pain thresholds are closely tied to the female endocrine system, impacting how dental distress is processed. Clinical observations demonstrate that pain perception and dental anxiety fluctuate significantly across different phases of the menstrual cycle. Specifically, women often report a lower pain tolerance and increased psychological distress during the luteal and menstrual phases, when progesterone and estrogen levels shift rapidly.

This cyclical variance in nociception directly impacts how wisdom tooth discomfort is experienced on a day-to-day basis. A mild, chronic ache from an impacted tooth can intensify into acute distress depending on the time of the month. Unfortunately, because of dental anxiety or a busy lifestyle, some patients delay wisdom tooth removal until pain suddenly becomes severe. Relying on reactive treatment rather than proactive diagnostics frequently leads to emergency surgical interventions when the surrounding tissues are already highly inflamed, which unnecessarily complicates the extraction process and prolongs initial distress.

Complications and Timing for Extraction

When scheduling an elective third molar extraction, female biological variables should ideally be integrated into the treatment planning process. Research indicates that women using oral contraceptives, or those undergoing surgery during phases of high estrogen, face an increased risk of post-operative complications such as alveolar osteitis, commonly known as dry socket. Estrogen is believed to indirectly activate the fibrinolytic system, which can prematurely dissolve the essential blood clot that forms in the extraction socket.

If this blood clot dissolves or dislodges too early, the underlying bone and nerve endings are left exposed to air, food, and fluids, resulting in intense post-operative pain. To mitigate this risk, some clinical guidelines suggest scheduling elective oral surgery during the final days of the menstrual cycle or during the placebo pill interval for those on oral contraceptives. Lower circulating estrogen levels during these specific days favour stable clot formation and smoother healing trajectories.

Strategic Planning and Patient Care

Managing wisdom tooth concerns effectively requires a comprehensive approach that bridges routine preventative monitoring with strategic surgical timing. Undergoing regular radiographic assessments, such as OPG X-rays, allows dental professionals to track the trajectory of third molars before they compromise the alignment of neighbouring teeth or cause permanent damage to the jawbone.

For female patients, discussing the menstrual cycle or contraceptive use during a pre-surgical consultation empowers the practitioner to select the optimal surgical window, minimise the risk of dry socket, and tailor post-operative pain management protocols to individual needs. Ensuring you gather the right information regarding preparation and recovery tips ensures a smoother postoperative transition, minimised discomfort, and a faster return to daily activities. Taking charge of this recovery timeline helps prevent unexpected complications and supports long-term oral health.

Missing teeth can disturb more than just your smile. They can make it harder to eat, speak clearly, and feel confident in everyday situations. Many people look for a solution that is long-lasting, comfortable, and natural in appearance. When searching for dental implants near me, it becomes easier to find a reliable provider who can help restore both function and confidence. Dental implants have become one of the most trusted options for replacing missing teeth and restoring both function and confidence.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are fixed into the jawbone. They are made from materials that are safe for the body and designed to bond with the bone over time. Once the implant is secure, a crown is placed on top. This crown is shaped and coloured to match your natural teeth, making it look almost identical to a real tooth.

Why Consider Dental Implants?

Dental implants offer several advantages compared to other tooth replacement options. Unlike removable dentures, implants stay fixed in place and do not move while eating or speaking. They feel more natural and do not require special adhesives. Unlike some other treatments, implants do not depend on nearby teeth for support, which helps keep the surrounding teeth strong and healthy.

Another important benefit is that implants help maintain the strength of the jawbone. When a tooth is missing, the bone in that area can slowly weaken over time. Implants act like natural roots and help keep the bone active, preventing changes in facial structure.

Who Can Choose Dental Implants?

Most people who have missing teeth can consider dental implants. However, certain conditions must be met. Healthy gums and enough bone support are important for the success of the treatment. A dental professional will examine your mouth and overall health before recommending implants. In some cases, additional procedures may be needed to prepare the jawbone.

Benefits of Dental Implants

• Provide a natural look and feel
• Offer long-term durability with proper care
• Improve chewing and speaking ability
• Help maintain jawbone strength and facial shape
• Increase confidence and comfort

The Dental Implant Procedure

The process of getting dental implants usually takes place in stages:

Implant Placement: The implant is fixed into the jawbone through a minor surgical procedure.

Healing Period: Over the next few months, the implant bonds with the bone, creating a strong base.

Crown Placement: A custom-made crown is attached to complete the tooth and restore function.

All steps are carefully planned to ensure comfort and long-term success.

Conclusion

Dental implants are a reliable and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. They improve both appearance and function while supporting long-term oral health. If you are looking for a permanent and natural-looking option, dental implants may be the right choice. Consulting a dental professional can help you understand your options and choose the best treatment for your needs.

When it comes to maintaining a radiant smile, most people immediately think of their toothbrush and floss. While these tools are indispensable, the foundation of a resilient set of pearly whites actually starts on your plate. Your teeth and gums are living tissues that require a specific suite of nutrients to repair damage, fight off bacteria, and maintain structural integrity.

By understanding the synergy between nutrition and hygiene, you can transform your daily meals into a preventative treatment plan. It is about more than just avoiding the “bad stuff”; it is about actively fueling your mouth’s natural defense systems.

The Building Blocks: Calcium and Phosphorus

The enamel on your teeth is the hardest substance in the human body, but it is not invincible. Every time you eat, the pH level in your mouth shifts, and acidic byproducts can leach minerals from your enamel. To counter this, you need a steady intake of calcium and phosphorus.

Dairy products like milk, plain yoghurt, and cheese are the gold standards here. Cheese, in particular, has the added benefit of containing casein, a protein that helps fortify the enamel surface. For those following a plant-based diet, fortified soy milk, almonds, and leafy greens like kale provide excellent alternatives. These minerals work in tandem to undergo remineralisation, essentially “plugging” the microscopic holes caused by acid erosion.

Vitamin C and Gum Vitality

You cannot have healthy teeth without a healthy foundation. Your gums are the literal anchors for your dentition, and they rely heavily on Vitamin C to stay firm and snug against your teeth. Vitamin C is crucial for collagen production; without it, gum tissue can become tender, inflamed, and prone to bleeding-early signs of gingivitis.

Incorporating citrus fruits, kiwis, strawberries, and capsicum into your snacks ensures your immune system can effectively manage the bacteria living in your gingival pockets. If you find yourself struggling with persistent sensitivity or redness despite a good diet, seeking professional oral care tips from a top-rated dentist can help determine if your nutritional intake needs a clinical boost.

Nature’s Scrubbers: Crunchy Fibrous Foods

Not all “teeth-cleaning” happens at the bathroom sink. Firm, crunchy foods with high water content act as natural toothbrushes. Raw carrots, celery, and apples require a lot of chewing, which stimulates the production of saliva.

Saliva is your mouth’s most potent natural defense. It contains enzymes that neutralise plaque acids and washes away lingering food particles. The fibrous texture of these vegetables also gently scrubs the surfaces of your teeth, disrupting the formation of biofilm (plaque) before it has a chance to harden into tartar. Think of a crunchy afternoon snack as a mechanical “pre-wash” for your evening hygiene routine.

The Hidden Dangers of “Healthy” Sugars

While we all know that lollies and soft drinks are detrimental to dental health, many people are caught off guard by “hidden” sugars in health foods. Dried fruits, such as sultanas and dates, are highly concentrated in sugar and possess a sticky consistency that clings to the grooves of molars for hours. Similarly, frequent snacking on acidic fruits like lemons or oranges can thin the enamel over time.

The trick is moderation and timing. It is far better for your teeth to eat these foods as part of a main meal rather than grazing on them throughout the day. This limits the “acid attack” windows and allows your saliva enough time to restore a neutral pH balance in the oral cavity.

Hydration and Fluoride

Water is arguably the most underrated tool in oral biology. Most tap water in Australia is fluoridated, providing a constant, low-level topical treatment that hardens enamel and makes it more resistant to decay. Drinking water after meals serves a dual purpose: it clears away debris and ensures your salivary glands have the hydration they need to function optimally. Replacing sugary juices or sports drinks with plain water is perhaps the single most effective dietary change a person can make for their long-term dental prognosis.

The Broader Impact of Nutritional Choices

Maintaining a mouth-friendly diet does not just prevent cavities; it influences your systemic wellbeing. The mouth is the gateway to the body, and chronic oral inflammation is often linked to wider health issues, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Choosing whole, unprocessed foods creates a ripple effect of health that extends far beyond the gum line.

Understanding the relationship between healthy food and oral health is the first step toward a holistic lifestyle where your fitness goals and your dental check-ups work in perfect harmony. When you nourish your body with the right fuel, your smile becomes a natural reflection of your internal vitality.

A child’s smile is closely tied to their confidence, comfort, and overall development. During the early years, dental and jaw growth happens rapidly, and even small issues can evolve into complex problems if ignored. Many parents assume orthodontic treatment should wait until the teenage years, but modern dentistry shows that early attention can make a profound difference. Interceptive orthodontics is designed to identify and manage developing concerns at the right time, helping children grow into healthier smiles and stronger self-esteem.

Interceptive orthodontics generally begins between ages six and ten, when children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth. This phase of growth offers a unique opportunity because the jawbones are still developing and can be gently guided. Instead of reacting to severe misalignment later, orthodontists can address crowding, bite problems, and jaw discrepancies early. This proactive approach often simplifies or reduces the need for extensive treatment during adolescence.

One of the most compelling reasons for early orthodontic care is prevention. Dental issues such as overcrowding, crossbites, overbites, and underbites rarely correct themselves. As a child grows, these problems often become more pronounced, leading to longer treatment times and more invasive procedures. Interceptive orthodontics focuses on correcting the underlying causes while growth is still occurring. By creating space for permanent teeth and guiding jaw development, early treatment can prevent extractions, reduce the likelihood of surgery, and shorten future orthodontic care.

Functionality is another essential benefit of early intervention. Proper alignment affects how a child chews, speaks, and breathes. Bite issues can interfere with speech development and make chewing less efficient, while jaw imbalances may contribute to uneven tooth wear or jaw discomfort later in life. Early orthodontic treatment helps establish a balanced bite, supporting better oral function and long-term dental health. These improvements often extend beyond the mouth, influencing posture, breathing patterns, and overall comfort.

Interceptive orthodontic care is commonly delivered in phases. Phase one treatment addresses skeletal and developmental concerns using appliances such as expanders, partial braces, or habit-correcting devices. This phase helps guide jaw growth and prepares the mouth for permanent teeth. After a resting period, phase two may involve full braces or aligners to refine alignment once all adult teeth have erupted. This phased approach works with natural growth patterns, making treatment more efficient and predictable.

For parents, understanding the value of early intervention strategies in interceptive orthodontics can be empowering. These strategies involve early evaluations, close monitoring, and customized treatment plans tailored to each child’s unique development. Orthodontists assess factors such as tooth eruption patterns, jaw symmetry, and bite relationships to determine the ideal timing for intervention. Acting at the right moment often leads to better outcomes with less discomfort and lower overall costs.

The emotional impact of early orthodontic care is just as important as the physical benefits. Children are often very aware of their appearance, and noticeable dental issues can affect confidence during formative years. Early correction can help children feel more comfortable smiling, speaking, and interacting with peers. This boost in self-esteem can positively influence social development and help children approach adolescence with greater confidence.

Advancements in orthodontic technology have further improved the effectiveness of interceptive treatment. Digital imaging, 3D scans, and advanced treatment planning tools allow orthodontists to visualize growth patterns and anticipate future changes with remarkable accuracy. Appliances are now more precise, comfortable, and child-friendly, making early treatment less intimidating and more effective. These innovations also allow for better communication with parents, who can see projected outcomes and understand the long-term benefits of early care.

Choosing interceptive orthodontics is an investment in a child’s future health and well-being. Early treatment can reduce the severity of later orthodontic issues, shorten treatment time during the teenage years, and lower the risk of complications. More importantly, it helps children develop healthy oral habits and a positive relationship with dental care from a young age. A well-aligned smile supports not only oral health but also confidence, comfort, and quality of life.

As orthodontics continues to evolve, early treatment options are becoming more advanced and accessible. Ongoing innovation highlights how technology is changing early treatment, ensuring that children today benefit from smarter, gentler, and more personalized orthodontic solutions that support lifelong confidence and health.

Being a woman today means juggling a lot. Between work, family, friends, workouts, side hustles, and the occasional moment of “me-time,” who has the time (or budget) to schedule dentist visits for teeth whitening?

That’s why at-home teeth whitening kits are such a lifesaver. You get professional-level results without having to sit in a dental chair or block out your weekend. But with so many kits out there, how do you know which ones actually work, and which ones fit seamlessly into a packed schedule?

Let’s break it down.

Why At‑Home Whitening Kits Work for Women on the Go

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably tried to multitask everything, even self-care. Whitening strips while folding laundry? Whitening gel during your skincare routine? Yep, same here.

The good news? Today’s best at-home whitening kits are designed for real life. They’re quick, mess-free, and come with built-in flexibility. You can whiten your teeth while responding to emails, binge-watching your favorite series, or even getting the kids ready for bed.

But not all kits are created equal. Some are harsh on enamel, others are overpriced, and a few just… don’t work.

What Actually Matters in a Whitening Kit

When you’re busy, your self-care routine has to work with your life, not slow it down. So if you’re picking out a whitening kit, these are the features that’ll save you time, hassle, and protect your smile in the process:

• Fast, visible results – You shouldn’t have to wait weeks to notice a difference. Look for a kit that delivers a brighter smile in just a few uses.
• Gentle on enamel – Whitening shouldn’t hurt. Go for kits with enamel-safe ingredients, especially if you’ve had sensitivity in the past.
• Mess-free and low effort – No one wants to deal with gooey trays or complicated steps. Pre-filled applicators or custom-fit trays can make life so much easier.
• Aligner-friendly – Already using affordable clear aligners? Choose a whitening kit that’s designed to work alongside them,  no interference, no damage, just results.
• Nighttime-safe – If you wear a night guard, such as,  soft night guard, timing your whitening sessions earlier in the evening is key. Better yet, find a kit that works well around your nightly routine.

Our Top Picks for Whitening Kits That Fit Your Life

Here’s a curated list based on convenience, effectiveness, and ease of use:

1. Dual-Use Whitening + Aligner Kit

Perfect for those already using affordable clear aligners. This kind of kit allows you to whiten your teeth and continue your aligner routine,  no extra steps, no awkward trays.

Why you’ll love it:
Pop in the gel, wear your aligners as usual, and let the magic happen. Great for multitaskers and minimalists.

2. Gentle Whitening for Sensitive Smiles

If you’ve ever flinched from an icy drink after whitening, this one’s for you. Enamel-safe, low-sensitivity formulas are ideal, especially if you wear a soft night guard at bedtime.

Why it’s a winner:
It works while being kind to your enamel. Plus, you won’t wake up regretting last night’s whitening session.

3. LED-Boosted Kits

LED whitening sounds fancy, but it’s actually super practical. These kits speed up the whitening process, so you can get great results while doing your skincare or finishing that last-minute presentation.

Quick tip:
Make sure to choose a kit where the LED device is hands-free, because let’s be real, you’re going to be doing ten other things.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Whitening Kit

A whitening kit is only as good as how you use it,  and don’t worry, this part’s easy too:

• Whiten during downtime – Try it while watching Netflix, cooking dinner, or winding down with a book.
• Stick to the schedule – Most kits give you noticeable results in 5–7 days. Just don’t overdo it. Whitening isn’t a daily face mask; it’s more like a treatment cycle.
• Avoid coffee or wine right after – I know, I know, but just for an hour or two. Your newly whitened teeth are extra absorbent during that time.
• Keep your aligners clean – Cloudy aligners = dull-looking smile. Rinse them daily, and brush them if you can.
• Don’t whiten with your night guard in – Whitening should happen earlier in the evening so your mouth is fresh and ready for overnight protection.

A Note for Aligner Users and Night Grinders

If you’re on a teeth straightening at home journey, you’re already investing in your smile. Whitening can complement that, just make sure your kit is designed to work with your aligners, not against them.

And if you wear a night guard, be mindful of timing. Night guards protect your smile; whitening brightens it,  just don’t confuse the two.

Whitening That Works with Your Life

You don’t have to pause your life to brighten your smile.

The best at-home whitening kits are made for real women, the ones who don’t have time for complicated routines, but still want to feel confident flashing their teeth at a last-minute meeting, school pickup, or Saturday brunch.

So go ahead. Find a kit that fits your lifestyle, and let your smile shine, even on your busiest days.

Because you deserve a routine that works for you, not the other way around.

The number of people approaching an orthodontist for problems like crooked teeth and misaligned teeth has increased in number tremendously nowadays. The reason for that is that not correcting such problems could result in gum disease, digestive issues, and others. It would be difficult to get rid of the stuck food particles when you have crooked teeth, responsible for plaque buildup.

You have several options to correct this kind of teeth problem, and the most popular ones among them are Invisalign and Braces. The majority of the people who have used Invisalign felt pretty comfortable wearing it on their teeth. Those who have used braces reported that they have faced problems like plaque buildup, food restrictions, etc.

Both braces and Invisalign are effective when it comes to showing the results. People choose one of them according to their budget and comfort. Whether you need Invisalign or braces, for the best Pearland orthodontist, visit Ello Orthodontics. Which is easier to maintain? When you wear braces, you must brush your teeth at least two times a day until your orthodontist removes them.

You must use a toothbrush with soft bristles for brushing your teeth, as a toothbrush with hard bristles can damage braces. Brush your teeth gently. When it comes to Invisalign, it is easy to remove and put on. According to the research, people with Invisalign aligners hardly faced problems like cavities and tooth decay. Clean them with cleaning crystals at least once a day to maintain them in good condition. Brush Invisalign slowly after soaking it in the cleaning crystals using a brush. Lastly, clean them with lukewarm water.

Dental development is different for both kids and adults, which means orthodontists would use a different approach for kids to correct their teeth problems. Your orthodontist may recommend a different type of Invisalign for your kid. Most adults ignore several dental problems until they cause severe pain and discomfort. What you need to understand is that even the small issues might turn into major problems in the future if you ignore them.

For the kids, it would take around six to one and a half years for the treatment. For adults, it may take a maximum of 24 months for the treatment. Every patient is different. The goals and needs of every patient would be different. The treatment duration can be more or less, depending on your requirements and condition. Many people think that Invisalign for adults would cost them more, but Invisalign for kids is more expensive. Choosing Invisalign for kids would be a better choice, as they are easy to maintain.

What you must keep in mind is, your orthodontist may not always recommend Invisalign for your kids. Your orthodontist may recommend braces for more complex dental problems. Prepare your kid for the treatment. Tell them that there is nothing to panic about. Doing this is very important. Otherwise, this might take a toll on your kid’s mental health. Don’t forget to read the reviews of an orthodontist before you take the appointment for Invisalign or braces. Check whether your health insurance covers the dental treatment cost or not before visiting a dental clinic.

It is essential to practice good oral hygiene from an early age in order to guarantee that children’s teeth and gums remain healthy as they mature. However, brushing children’s teeth can sometimes be a challenge. Young children often resist brushing, and some may not have developed the coordination to brush effectively. In these cases, oral swabs are a convenient and effective solution to help parents and caregivers keep children’s mouths clean and healthy. These swabs, often made from soft mouth care sponges, provide an easy and gentle way to care for a child’s teeth and gums, even for those who are too young to brush independently.

What Are Oral Swabs?

Oral swabs are small, soft, sponge-like applicators attached to a handle, designed to clean the teeth, gums, and tongue. They may be used to assist clear the mouth of germs, plaque, and food particles when combined with a little water or an oral cleansing solution. For children, oral swabs offer an excellent alternative to traditional toothbrushes, especially when they are too young to brush on their own or have sensitive gums.

Mouth care sponges, which are often used to make oral swabs, are specially designed to be soft and non-abrasive. This makes them ideal for delicate oral tissues, ensuring that children’s gums and teeth are cleaned gently without causing any discomfort. Oral swabs can be used on children as young as infants to keep their mouths clean and free from bacteria, even before they start teething.

Benefits of Using Oral Swabs for Children’s Teeth

Gentle Cleaning for Sensitive Gums
Children, especially babies and toddlers, have delicate gums and teeth that need to be cleaned gently. Gum irritation can result from using a standard toothbrush too soon or too forcefully. Oral swabs made with soft mouth care sponges provide a gentle yet effective cleaning solution that ensures the gums are not harmed. Parents and caregivers can safely clean the child’s teeth and gums without worrying about causing any discomfort.

Helps with Teething
Teething can be a painful process for infants, and their gums may become swollen and sensitive. Oral swabs offer a soft and soothing way to clean the baby’s mouth during this stage. Gently wiping the gums with an oral swab can help relieve discomfort and keep the mouth clean, even before the first tooth emerges. Some swabs are designed with soothing gel or cooling properties to provide additional relief during teething.

Promotes Healthy Habits Early On
Establishing lifelong healthy dental hygiene habits requires introducing oral care at a young age. Using oral swabs on infants and young children allows caregivers to begin cleaning the child’s teeth even before they have fully developed their own brushing skills. By making oral care a regular part of the child’s routine, parents set a foundation for lifelong healthy habits.

Perfect for Babies and Toddlers
Before children can effectively brush their teeth on their own, oral swabs provide a safe and effective solution for parents who want to ensure their child’s teeth are properly cared for. The small size and soft material of the swabs make them ideal for use in babies’ mouths, allowing caregivers to clean hard-to-reach areas without discomfort. They are particularly useful for children who cannot yet spit out toothpaste or who might not tolerate brushing.

Convenient for On-the-Go Use
Oral swabs are compact and portable, making them a convenient option for cleaning children’s teeth while traveling or when you’re on the go. Since they require minimal equipment—just the swab and some water or oral solution—they are perfect for quick cleanings when a toothbrush is not readily available. Parents can easily carry a pack of swabs in their diaper bag or purse for use throughout the day, ensuring that their child’s mouth remains fresh and clean no matter where they are.

Effective in Preventing Oral Health Issues
Gum disease and cavities are two frequent dental problems that may be avoided with good oral care. Even before the eruption of baby teeth, using oral swabs regularly helps remove harmful bacteria and plaque buildup. This can help prevent issues like early childhood cavities, a condition that can affect young children if oral care is neglected.

Choosing the Right Oral Swabs for Children

When selecting oral swabs for children, it is important to choose high-quality products. Parents should look for oral swabs made from soft, non-toxic mouth care sponges to ensure they are safe for young children. Additionally, some custom medical foam suppliers specialize in producing oral swabs that are specifically designed for use in pediatric care. These products are made to meet safety and health standards while providing optimal comfort and effectiveness.

A trusted custom medical foam supplier will offer swabs that are designed with children’s needs in mind, ensuring the materials used are gentle yet durable enough for regular cleaning. It’s also important to choose swabs that are easy to handle and use, even by parents or caregivers who may not have much experience with oral care.

Conclusion

Oral swabs are a valuable tool for maintaining children’s oral health, offering a gentle and effective solution for cleaning their teeth and gums. Made from soft mouth care sponges, these swabs provide a safe and comfortable way to prevent oral health issues, promote good hygiene habits, and ease teething discomfort. By choosing the right oral swabs from a reliable custom medical foam supplier, parents and caregivers can ensure that they are providing the best care for their child’s developing teeth and gums.