Do your best to ensure a lifetime of healthy teeth for your child by following good dental habits right from the start! Even before that first baby tooth makes an appearance, you can start caring for their dental health and help establish routines that will last.
Caring for Baby Teeth
Our friends at the American Dental Association shared these great tips on caring for your child’s baby teeth!
Gum Care
Even before your baby’s first teeth break through, gently wipe gums with a damp cloth or gauze pad after meals.
Beginning Brushing
As soon as baby teeth appear, gently brush them twice daily with a small, soft-bristled brush and a little fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice). You’ll need to brush your child’s teeth at first, gradually helping them learn how to brush as they grow.
Floss From the Start
Once your child has two teeth that touch, use a strand of dental floss to clean in between. This helps remove leftover food between teeth and under gums.
Establishing Good Habits
Between ages 3 and 6, teach your child how to brush and floss. Supervise to make sure they reach all their teeth, all sides (front, top and back). Just like adults, kids should brush twice daily for at least two minutes each time, using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Brushing in the morning and evening is usually best. Special picks or pre-threaded flossing tools can make flossing easier for little hands.
Stay Hydrated
Make sure your child drinks plenty of plain water. In most communities, water supplies have added fluoride to prevent tooth decay. (Not sure if your tap water has fluoride? Use this online map to find out.)
Eat Healthy
Watch your child’s diet carefully. Cavity-causing bacteria feed on sugary foods and drinks, including ones you might think are healthy, such as fruit juice, baked goods and cereal bars made with honey or molasses. Learn more about cavity prevention here.
And remember, we’re here for you every step of the way! If you have any questions about when to make your child’s first dental visit or how best to care for baby teeth, reach out to our office at (248) 852-3130.
