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Dental Health

Caring For Infants' and Toddler's Teeth

Good oral care should occur at all ages. Brushing and flossing can sometimes seem easier when you are talking about adult teeth. When a parent considers the oral care of a baby or a toddler they can sometimes falter when it comes to understanding how to care for the mouth or baby teeth that have erupted. There are things that parents can do even before that first tooth erupts to insure that baby starts life with good dental health.

The first thing a baby needs is for mom or dad to watch out for or to prevent against baby bottle decay (bottle carries) or nursing mouth. Bottle decay can occur when liquids are allowed to pool in the baby's mouth after the baby falls asleep. This can happen when the bottle is propped up or when the baby is put to bed with a bottle. Sugary liquids then pool around the gums and any teeth that have already erupted causing decay. The same can occur when a nursing baby falls asleep at the breast and the breast is still inside the baby's mouth if the mom also falls asleep.

Mom or dad should wipe out the baby's mouth (gums and any erupted teeth) with a clean, cloth that has been dampened in clean, clear water. A clean washcloth or gauze pad can be used.

Never let your baby fall asleep with a bottle in the mouth or the breast in the mouth. If you are used to giving a bottle at naptime, make sure the bottle contains only water and not juice or milk. If your dentist is okay with a pacifier that is better than a bottle filled with anything other than water.

It is important that your baby receive enough fluoride even before that first tooth erupts. Check your local water supply to see if the water contains fluoride, and how much. You can call your local water district for this information. Your pediatrician or dentist will be able to provide your baby with fluoride drops if it is necessary. It is important to let your dentist and your pediatrician know if you use bottled water for drinking and cooking, as this water will not contain fluoride.

Most dentists will ask about your water drinking and cooking habits at the first visit but this doesn't usually occur until the child is 18 months of age or older. Your baby should have fluoride before that time so it is up to you to check this information while you are pregnant to be sure that your baby's developing teeth will receive the fluoride they need right from the beginning.

Any child under age five should have an adult's help to brush teeth. Never allow a child under the age of five to brush alone. There are plenty of kid-friendly toothbrushes and toothpastes that are designed to make oral care attractive to your toddler or young child. It is still up to the parent to make sure that they brush their baby teeth after meals, and that they do a good job. Use only a small amount of dental gel on a soft kid-sized toothbrush with water. Use a gel that is designed for children and is safe to swallow. Teach your child how to brush the upper and lower teeth and to make sure they know that every tooth needs to be brushed not just the front ones. Develop good habits early and those habits will stay with them for life.

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