An early start in regular dental care is an important step on the road to total health. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children begin routine dental care by 1 year of age, so any problems may be detected, treated early or prevented completely.
Baby teeth
Though not permanent, baby teeth are important to a child’s future dental health because they:
• Are necessary for proper chewing and eating.
• Provide space for the permanent teeth and guide them into position.
• Permit normal development of the jaw and facial muscles.
• Assist in the development of speech.
• Add to an attractive appearance.
Dental tips
The following list provides some basic dental health tips parents should know:
• It is recommended you first take your baby to the dentist at 9 to 12 months of age or when the first tooth appears. Regular visits every 6 months are suggested thereafter.
• Brush your child’s teeth when the first tooth appears. Use a soft bristle brush and warm water. Do not use a toothpaste containing fluoride until your child can spit out the excess.
• When toothpaste is used, only a “pea-size” amount is needed.
• Flossing should begin when the teeth touch each other, usually at age 3 or 4. Flossing can be hard to learn, and children may need help with flossing until their early teen years.
• If your child takes a bottle to bed, the bottle should be filled with water only. Drinking sugary liquids from a bottle can lead to severe dental decay.
• Drinking juice and snacking should be kept to a minimum.Do not delay having your child’s cavities treated.
Your child can be cavity free. Bright smiles and healthy teeth begin with good oral hygiene, balanced diets and early dental visits.
Lori R. Barbeau, DDS, is medical director of Dental Surgery at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. One of more than 70 outpatient specialty clinics, Children’s Dental Center, located in the Children’s Clinics building next to Children’s Hospital in Wauwatosa, provides pediatric dental care to infants, toddlers, children and adolescents. For more information about Children’s Hospital visit chw.org.
FAST FACT: Studies show that children with poor oral health have decreased school performance, poor social relationships and less success later in life. Children experiencing pain from decayed teeth are distracted and unable to concentrate on schoolwork.
Print a toothbrushing chart from Milwaukeemoms.com.