Dictionary For Dads

Facts on Care:                                                                                                  The care and cleaning of your baby's teeth is important for long-term dental health. Even though the first set of teeth will fall out, tooth decay can hasten this process and leave gaps before the permanent teeth are ready to come in. The remaining primary teeth may then crowd together to attempt to fill in the gaps, which may cause the permanent teeth to come in crooked and out of place.

When To Begin:                                                                                                     Daily dental care should begin even before your baby's first tooth emerges. Wipe your baby's gums daily with a clean, damp washcloth or gauze, or brush them gently with a soft, infant-sized toothbrush and water (no toothpaste). As soon as the first tooth appears, brush them with water.

When To Begin Toothpaste:                                                                               Toothpaste is OK to use on your child's teeth once he or she gets old enough to spit it out - usually around age 3. Choose one with fluoride and use only a pea-sized amount or less in younger children. Don't let your child swallow the toothpaste or eat it out of the tube because an overdose of fluoride can be harmful for children.

On Going Prevention:                                                                                        By the time all your baby's teeth are in, it's a good idea to brush your child's teeth at least twice a day, and especially after meals. It's also important to get your child used to flossing early on. A good time to start flossing is when two teeth start to touch. Talk to your child's dentist for advice on flossing those tiny teeth. You can also get your toddler interested in the routine by letting him or her watch and imitate you as you brush and floss on a regular basis.

Another important tip for preventing tooth decay: don't let your baby fall asleep with a bottle. The milk or juice can pool in her mouth and cause tooth decay and plaque.

The American Dental Association recommends that children see a dentist by age one, when six to eight teeth are in place, to spot any potential problems and advise parents about preventive care.