Being a parent is a full-time job. We are here to help… here are some preventive dental care suggestions about how to care for your child’s developing teeth and gums.
Below are some tips on good oral care for your baby from the American Dental Association. Post these on your refrigerator or in another handy place so your family and babysitters can also see them:
- Babies have a higher risk for decay if their teeth are in contact with sugary liquids often or for long periods of time. These liquids include fruit juice, soda and other sweetened liquids. Never put your baby to bed with a bottle or use a bottle as a pacifier. Infants should finish their bottles before going to bed.
- If your child uses a pacifier, don’t dip it in sugar or honey, or put it in your mouth before giving it to the child. It’s important to know that the cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth can be passed to your baby.
- Wipe the baby’s gums with a wet gauze pad or with a washcloth or towel after each feeding.
- Begin brushing your child’s teeth with a child-sized toothbrush and water as soon as the first tooth appears.
- Sippy cups or “no-spill” cups should only be used until a child’s first birthday. After that, try to get your child to drink from a small open cup.
- Take your baby to the dentist before his or her second birthday. This helps our dental team get to know your child’s and your family’s specific needs, so we can provide the best care.
- The FDA recommends that parents and caregivers not use benzocaine products for teething in children younger than 2 years, except under the advice and supervision of a health care professional.
- Consult with your pediatrician, family physician on the type of water to use when preparing powdered infant formula.