- Parents and caregivers can share tooth
decay causing bacteria when they clean their child’s pacifier or bottle nipple by placing it in their mouths or when they share a child’s food and drink. - Clean bottle nipples and pacifiers in warm, soapy water and avoid sharing food and drinks with your children.
- Beginning at birth, clean infant gums with a damp cloth or
soft toothbrush and warm water after each feeding and check your child’s gums/teeth daily. - Encourage children to drink water, not juice, in between feedings and never put a bottle or sippy cup in the crib with anything but water.
- Children learn by example, brush and floss your teeth with them to encourage good oral health habits.
- Check out products with xylitol as an alternative to sugar-laden sweets!
- Have your child create a calendar to track good oral health practices. Post the calendar in the bathroom and reward children with a gold star or happy face for each day of great oral care!
- Help get your child excited about their next dental visit by bringing the calendar with you to show the dentist.
- Brush and floss twice a day. If instructed by your dentist, introduce a fluoride rinse to offer extra protection for children ages six or older.
Did You Know?
Baby teeth play an important role in speech development, a child’s appearance and facial structure, nutrition and ensuring that permanent teeth erupt in their normal positions. Although baby teeth are eventually replaced with permanent teeth, it is essential to keep them healthy. Decay and infection in baby teeth can cause damage to developing permanent teeth.
Make Dental Visits Fun
- Regular dental visits will enable your child to develop a sense of familiarity and comfort with the dental team and practice as well as provide
vital preventive care necessary for a healthy smile. - Reading can have a soothing and calming effect on your child. Bring their favorite book to read to them during their dental appointment.
- Let your child wear a costume on their dental visit. This special treat can help them view going to the dentist as a fun activity.
- Allow your child to bring their favorite toy or blanket with them on their dental visit to give them an added sense of security and comfort.
