When should I start cleaning my baby's
teeth? This is a good habit to start early!Ê
The teeth must be cleaned as they erupt.Ê Use a damp
wash cloth or a toothbrush.Ê
If your health care provider agrees, use a tiny dab
of fluoride toothpaste.Ê Tooth brushing is definitely
a parents job in the preschool years.Ê
Children are usually able to brush their teeth well
when they are 8 years old.Ê Be sure to check your child's
teeth regularly for any chalky white or brown spots
which could be the beginning of tooth decay.
Advice on
infant teething? Sore gums from teething often
occur for a few days at a time between six months to
age three.Ê Babies often get relief from a clean teething
ring, cool spoon, cold wet washcloth or toothbrush.Ê
Chilled teething rings or rubbing a clean finger on
the sore gum area often helps too.
When
should my child first see a dentist?
"First visit by first birthday" sums it up.Ê Your child
should visit a dentist when the first tooth comes in,
usually between six and twelve months of age.Ê Early
examination and preventive care will protect your child's
smile now and in the future.
What
dental problems could a baby have? Dental problems can begin early.Ê
A big concern is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay (BBTD), which
is preventable.Ê BBTD can result from long periods of
exposing baby teeth to liquids that contain sugar including
formula, milk, breast milk, and juice.Ê
A baby who has a habit of sleeping with a baby bottle
filled with any sugary liquid or a breast in their mouth
is at risk of getting BBTD.Ê Frequent snacking on sweet
or sticky foods can also cause decay.Ê
The earlier the first dental visit, the better chance
of preventing dental problems.Ê Children with healthy
teeth can chew food well, speak clearly and share precious
smiles.Ê Start your child on a lifetime of good dental
habits now!
How
can I prevent tooth decay from nursing or a bottle? Taking your baby off of the breast
when he/she falls asleep can prevent baby tooth decay.Ê
Hold your baby while bottle feeding.Ê Always take a
bottle filled with milk or juice away from the sleeping
child.Ê
If your child requires a bottle at bedtime provide a
bottle filled with water.Ê Instead of a bottle try comforting
your child with a pacifier or a favorite toy or blanket.Ê
Check with your health care provider to make sure your
child is getting the right amount of fluoride.Ê Brush
your baby's teeth with a soft toothbrush daily. Ê
Begin teaching your baby to use a cup by seven months.Ê
It's a good idea to introduce juice in a cup.Ê Your
baby can be off the bottle by 12 months. ÊÊÊ
Prevent
tooth decay Fluoride, in proper dosage, has been
shown to significantly reduce dental decay. When fluoridated
water has less than the ideal amount or is not available,
fluoride supplements are recommended. (A call to your
local water district is all that is necessary to determine
whether your water has fluoride or not.)
When supplements are needed, the administration of fluoride
supplements should begin shortly after birth and continue
through the time of eruption of the second permanent
molars (approx. 12 years of age).
Regular dental check-ups should begin no later than
18 months of age.
If you have any questions or need more information,
don't hesitate to call.
Should
I worry about infant thumb or finger sucking? Thumb sucking is perfectly normal
for infants; most stop by the age of two.Ê Prolonged
(beyond age 5 or 6 years)Ê thumb sucking can create
crowded, crooked teeth or bite problems.Ê Your dentist
will be glad to suggest ways to address a prolonged
thumb-sucking habit. Ê
