Even though your child's baby teeth are temporary, you need to protect them just as you would his permanent teeth. Tooth decay that begins in the first months of life can have long-term effects on your child's oral health and development. With proper cleaning and healthy habits, your child's baby teeth can stay strong for as long as he has them.
Significance
Your baby's primary teeth are necessary to help him chew solid food, but they also help him form the sounds he will build on as he learns to speak. Early tooth decay can interfere with these natural processes. Primary teeth also act as placeholders for permanent teeth. When baby teeth are lost because of decay, the remaining teeth may spread out, which can cause permanent teeth to come in crooked or crowded, according to the American Dental Association.
Proper Cleaning
After feedings, wipe your baby's gums with a clean, damp gauze pad or washcloth even before his teeth erupt, advises the ADA. This will prevent plaque buildup that can damage your baby's new teeth when they come in. As soon as your baby's teeth erupt, begin brushing them twice a day with a soft-bristled child's toothbrush and water.
Healthy Habits
Never put your baby to bed with a bottle. Baby bottle tooth decay--the common name for tooth decay caused by prolonged exposure to the sugars in beverages like juice, milk and formula--can cause severe damage to a baby's teeth. According to the ADA, acid attacks a baby's teeth for at least 20 minutes after he drinks a sugary liquid. If you put your baby to bed with a bottle, let him constantly suck a bottle throughout the day or dip his pacifier in sweet substances, the acid attacks are much more frequent and can lead to decay. Proper dental care is a healthy habit that should start early. The ADA recommends that babies see a dentist no later than their first birthday.
Fluoride
Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens teeth and helps prevent cavities. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends parents talk to their child's doctor about adequate fluoride exposure. If your local water supply has enough fluoride, your baby may already get enough to protect his teeth. Some babies over 6 months old may need fluoride supplements if they do not get enough fluoride from drinking water. Unless your doctor or dentist tells you otherwise, wait until your child is 2, or old enough to reliably spit out toothpaste, before brushing his teeth with fluoride toothpaste.
Considerations
Your baby may experience pain and soreness as his new teeth break through the gums. To ease his pain, rub his gums or let him chew on a teething ring, recommends the ADA. Talk to your child's doctor about other treatments if you feel that he needs more pain relief.
Warning
If your baby’s teeth become discolored or show other signs of decay, see a dentist promptly. Untreated decay can become severe, possibly leading to tooth loss.
