Protecting Your Young Child’s Teeth

It is possible for children to reach adulthood without ever experiencing tooth decay. But to ensure this, good oral health practices should begin in infancy. Parents must provide this care in their child’s early years. Later, parents will need to instruct, monitor and motivate their children to maintain good oral health habits. Children learn healthy practices from their parents, so parents must be good role models. Attitudes and habits established at an early age are very important for good oral health throughout one’s life.

A child’s dental care actually begins before birth. A pregnant woman’s diet provides the nutrients required for good development of the unborn child’s teeth. After the baby is born good oral hygiene for the newborn can be achieved by gently wiping their mouths and gums after every feeding, putting only water in their sleep time bottles, and massaging their gums to comfort the child when teething.

When a child is frequently given a bottle that contains liquids with sugar as a pacifier or at sleep times, baby bottle tooth decay can result. This serious condition can destroy the infant’s teeth. If you must give your baby a bottle at bedtime, be sure it contains only water.

Brushing should begin as soon as the first tooth erupts. Parents should brush and floss a child’s teeth daily until the child can be taught to do this alone. Then a child’s brushing and flossing should be supervised and encouraged by parents.

Fluoride is one of the most effective ways of preventing tooth decay in children. Fluoride protection can be obtained from a fluoridated drinking water supply, fluoride tablets or drops, fluoride toothpastes and topical fluoride treatments given at our office. We recommend always using ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste. Your child’s particular fluoride needs should be discussed with us.

Your child’s first dental visit should occur by the first birthday. Then visits should occur regularly, or as recommended by the dentist.

Sealants can provide excellent protection against tooth decay. These are clear or shaded liquid plastics that are painted on the chewing surfaces of children’s permanent back teeth. When combined with brushing with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing, sealants offer major protection against decay.

As your child grows, you should continually encourage preventative dental care routines, such as brushing and flossing, eating a balanced diet and having reguar check-ups. Your child may be fortunate enough to say, “Cavities? Never had’em, never will!”