Early Dental Care

Finding a dental home for your child as soon as his or her first tooth erupts is crucial to a lifetime of healthy smiles. A prevention program can be implemented to prevent dental problems such as Early Childhood Caries, also known as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries. There is a high risk for severe and extensive decay from using a baby bottle filled with milk or juice when the child sleeps. The same pattern of decay can also occur when a child is nursed continuously beyond a reasonable age of weaning. We feel that a child should be encouraged to drink from a cup by his or her first birthday.

It is normal for a young child to find comfort in sucking his or her thumb or finger. Pacifiers serve the same purpose for some children. Most children will wean themselves from this habit as they get older. It is essential to discourage this habit when the child is ready to lose his or her first tooth and about to erupt the permanent incisors. We will be glad to suggest many creative ways to address a prolonged thumbsucking or pacifier habit.

Cleaning your baby’s teeth as soon as it erupts instills healthy habits early on. The baby gets used to your fingers being in their mouths and will be less resistant in the future to having their teeth brushed. We encourage parents to start cleaning their baby’s teeth with the use of a wet washcloth and a small amount of fluoride-free training toothpaste. Make this a part of the baby’s daily routine to prevent plaque build-up and keep the teeth healthy.