- Start early. Keep your baby’s mouth clean even before he or she has teeth. Gently wipe your baby’s gums and tongue after feedings.
- Have your children visit the dentist by the age of 1, so the dentist can make sure their teeth are developing correctly.
- Have your children start brushing as soon as they get their first tooth, so it becomes a habit. The earlier, the better!
- Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle or sippy cup – formula, milk and juice all can lead to tooth decay.
- Avoid sticky or chewy snacks that don’t wash out easily – although raisins and fruit snacks seem healthy, they can still cause cavities.
- 6. Although pacifier and thumb-sucking habits are really common because children use them to self soothe, they can cause damage. Try to limit pacifier use to nap and nighttime.
- Juice and sports drinks contain a lot of sugar that can cause tooth decay – always remember that water is best.
- Floss at least once a day – most cavities are in between the teeth. A tooth brush can’t reach those places; floss can!
- Teach your child good brushing habits – brushing for two minutes twice a day and brushing in a small-circular motion.
- To maintain a healthy smile – visit the dentist twice a year. Regular checkups are important to keep your child’s smile sparkling bright.
Courtesy of Summerville Pediatric Dentistry
