Good Oral Health Starts with Baby’s First Tooth

/ The Family Culture / Good Oral Health

Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases in the United States according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Cavities can cause pain and infections that create problems with eating and speaking and may lead to damaged permanent teeth. Prevention begins well before your baby starts teething.

Baby bottle tooth decay occurs when a child is exposed to frequent or continuous drinks other than water. Generally, this occurs when children go to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, juice or another sugary drink. It can also occur when children continuously sip on beverages other than water throughout the day.

What parents and caregivers can do:

• Do not put your baby to bed with a bottle.
• When your baby is 6 to 9 months old, begin teaching your child to drink from a cup.
• Do not let your child sip on sugary beverages throughout the day.
• Even before your baby’s first teeth break through, wipe their gums twice a day with a clean, damp washcloth or gauze pad right after feeding and before they go to bed.
• When the first tooth comes in, begin brushing your child’s teeth twice a day.
• Visit the dentist by your child’s first birthday or within six months of them getting their first tooth. A dentist will be able to spot any signs of problems early on and provide guidance on hygiene, sealants and fluoride to protect your child’s teeth.

Creating healthy habits that prevent cavities and promote good oral health are relatively easy. Comment below advice or stories pertaining to oral health and cavities.

For more information about transitioning your baby from a bottle to a cup, visit The American Academy of Pediatrics.

To learn more about dental health for babies and kids, visit the American Dental Association.

The information contained on this page is not intended to replace the advice of a healthcare professional.