Brushing Baby and Toddler Teeth

Many parents do not realize that they need to begin cleaning their child's teeth the moment a first tooth erupts. Some babies can begin to get teeth as early a four months of age and from that point on brushing or swabbing of the teeth needs to be done on a regular basis, even if the child is only receiving breast milk or formula.

Preventative care early on can help prevent cavities and painful procedures for the child in the future. There are a number of tips parents can follow to help keep their child's teeth and gums healthy and cavity free.

Visit a Dentist Early

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children be taken to see a pediatric dentist at least six months after they get their first tooth. It may seems strange to think about taking a child who is under one into a dentist's office' but doing so will help make sure his teeth stay healthy and get him used to visits that will become a regular part of his life.

Limit Sweet Drinks

Some toddlers enjoy sipping from their sippy cup for lengthy periods of time. If their cups are filled with sweet fruit juices, they are bathing their teeth in the fruit sugars for large amounts of time and this can lead to tooth decay. Parents should limit their child's juice intake to mealtimes, and give their infants or toddlers water or milk in between.

Parents should also not let their baby go to bed with a bottle or sippy cup, as the liquid can pool in the mouth once the baby goes to sleep and cause dental problems.

Make Sure Fluoride is in Water, but Not Toothpaste

Infants and toddlers need a little fluoride in order to help their teeth remain strong and healthy, but too much can be just as bad as not enough.

Infants and toddlers should not have their teeth brushed with adult fluoridated toothpaste as they may swallow it in excess and this can have harmful effects, including discoloration of the teeth. There are toddler formulated toothpastes on the market that parents can purchase without fluoride.

Children can get the small amounts of fluoride they need in the water they drink. Many areas have fluoridated tap water. Parents should check to see if this is the case where they live. If a parent chooses to be extra cautious and only give his or her child bottle water, he or she should purchase water that has fluoride added to it. Many brands of bottled water now have fluoridated versions available.

Brush Infant and Toddler Teeth Daily

Parents should brush their baby or toddler's teeth daily. A wet washcloth is okay to use for infants still on breastmilk or formula, and parents should wipe down the child's teeth. Older babies and toddlers will benefit from a soft toothbrush in order to get all excess or stuck on food pieces out of the mouth.

Taking care of a baby or toddler's teeth is not hard once parents know what needs to be done to protect them. Proper early dental hygiene will lead to a healthier mouth and happier smiles.

Toddler Toothbrush

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