Parents frequently ask us how to improve oral health for their young children. We realized we do not get that many questions regarding children before they have all their baby teeth. We added some information for even our youngest patients!
- Before any baby teeth erupt, wipe the baby’s gums with a clean,moist gauze pad or washcloth after feedings to remove bacteria
- Infants should not go to bed/nap with their bottles. Milk contains natural sugars. A child frequently sipping on a bottle is very similar to an adult frequently snacking on sugary snacks.
- After the eruption of their first tooth, brush the baby’s teeth with water twice a day. You can use a small childrens soft bristle brush or a fingerbrush made to slide onto a parents finger.
- Once a child can practice spitting, incorporate toothpaste the size of a grain of rice when brushing teeth.
- Typically once a child is 3 years old, a pea size amount of toothpaste can be used.
We understand every child is different and may need adjusted oral health care. Please reach out if you have any questions, we would love to help! Prairie Dental Group 217-546-0412 or visit us online https://www.prairiedentalgroup.com/
Thank you Dr. Alison Long for submitting this article. You’ll find more Ask the Dentist articles online here:
