Keeping Your Child's Teeth Healthy

Nothing is cuter than a baby's toothless grin ... until that first tooth comes in and makes her smile even sweeter. Many parents think they don't need to worry about tooth care until they see a tooth, but this is a mistake. You should begin good dental habits before you see that little bit of white poking through your baby's gum.

There are special brushes made just for infants. They are usually very soft plastic or rubber bristles that you slide onto your finger. Gently move the brush across and around your baby's gums. You can also use a soft cloth instead of a special brush. Your baby will get used to the feeling of something wiping his gums. When she begins teething and suffers from sore gums, the pressure and stimulation this brushing provides can be very soothing to your baby. Just watch out for your finger, as a teething baby will often clamp down very hard and very quickly on anything in his mouth.

Once your baby's teeth start coming in, you need to brush your them each day. Although these baby teeth will ultimately be replaced by permanent teeth, it is important to care for them and keep them healthy. Baby teeth can still decay and cause serious dental problems. Caring for these baby teeth will help ensure the health and strength of the baby's permanent teeth. He should not be allowed to suck on a bottle all throughout the day, because the milk or juice that remains in his mouth can damage his teeth. Letting him take a bottle to bed each night can cause the same sorts of problems.

When your daughter is a preschooler, you can let her choose an age-appropriate toothbrush. They come in all colors, and many are embellished with characters or other fun decorations. Look for soft bristles, a wide handle that is easier for your child to hold, and a brush head that will fit comfortably in her mouth. You can brush her teeth dry or with water, or you can buy a toddler toothpaste. These special toothpastes do not contain fluoride, so they can be safely swallowed (as children in this age group are rarely able to avoid swallowing toothpaste). Fluoride, in small amounts, is recommended and safe for your baby after the first tooth is visible. It is either already in your city's tap water or available as a supplement prescribed by your pediatrician. (Filtering your tap water will not remove the fluoride.) Teach your child to brush every morning and night, after meals or as directed by your pediatrician or dentist.