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Take the following steps to prevent tooth decay:
-Take good care of your own oral health.
-Take good care of your baby’s teeth.
From birth to 12 months. Keep your baby’s mouth clean by gently wiping a clean baby cloth over his gums. Once you notice the first teeth, brush gently with water and a soft baby toothbrush. Check with your child’s doctor or dentist about the use of fluoride. Use a small amount of fluoride toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice.
12 to 36 months. Brush your child’s teeth 2 times a day. If your child’s doctor or dentist recommends fluoride toothpaste, use just a little for children under 2 years old (the size of a grain of rice). The best times to brush your teeth are after breakfast and before bed. The fluoride in toothpaste is designed to be rinsed out and not to be consumed, watch your child brushing. When he’s old enough, have him spit out the toothpaste residue after brushing.
3 to 6 years. Brush your child’s teeth twice a day. Use a small amount of fluoride toothpaste the size of a pea.
-Never put your child to bed with a bottle or food. Not only does this expose your child’s teeth to sugars, it also puts them at risk for ear infections and choking.
-Give your child a bottle only during meals. Do not use a bottle or baby cup as a pacifier, pacifier, or pacifier. Also, do not allow your child to walk with these items or drink from them for very long periods.
-Check your home water for fluoride. If your household tap water comes from a well, your child’s doctor or dentist may want to test a water sample for natural fluoride content. If your household tap water does not contain enough fluoride, your child’s doctor or dentist will prescribe an appropriate fluoride supplement if your child is at high risk for tooth decay.
-Teach your child to drink from a regular glass as soon as possible, preferably between 12 and 15 months. By drinking from a glass, you are less likely to collect fluid around your teeth. Also, you can’t take a glass to bed.
-If your child must have a bottle or baby cup for long periods, fill it with just water. During car trips, if your child is thirsty, offer only water.
-Do not allow your child to eat sweet or sticky foods, such as candy or candy, gummies, cookies, or roll-ups. Foods like crackers and potato chips also contain sugar. These are especially bad if your child eats them too often as snacks. They should only be eaten at lunchtime. Teach your child to use his tongue to remove food debris from his teeth immediately.
Serve juice only during meals and limit it to 4 to 6 ounces a day. Also, the juice is not recommended for babies under 6 months.
-Make an appointment at Unicare Dental Center for your child before one year of age if you see a problem, or needs more information.
