Care of baby’s teeth

The first set of teeth are important, because after they come in, they let your baby chew food and talk well. You baby’s first set of teeth also holds the space where permanent teeth will eventually be so  care for your baby’s teeth by following these suggestions:

• Clean the new teeth every day. When the teeth first come in, clean them by rubbing them gently with a clean wet washcloth. When the teeth are bigger, use a child’s toothbrush.

You may find that sitting your baby on your lap, facing away from you, helps you reach his teeth more easily. This position will work well when your baby is a toddler, too. See more ideas for how to brush a squirming toddler’s teeth.

If your baby resists having his teeth brushed give him a toothbrush to hold as well. This way he is more likely to feel in control. You can let him have a go himself and then clean up afterwards.

If you can, let your baby watch you brushing your teeth as often as possible. This will help him to get used to the idea.

• Children under 2 years of age shouldn’t use toothpaste. Instead, use water to brush your child’s teeth.

• Don’t let your baby go to sleep with a bottle. This can leave milk or juice sitting on the teeth and cause cavities that are known as “baby-bottle tooth decay.”

• Encourage older children to eat low-sugar snacks, such as fruits, cheese and vegetables. Avoid giving your child sticky, chewy candy.

• Teach your children how to brush their teeth and the importance of keeping their teeth clean.

• Take your children to the dentist regularly. The American Dental Association recommends that children see their dentist starting at 1 year of age