Dental Caries

Baby’s teeth begin to form even before birth, just because you can't see the teeth doesn't mean they aren't there. A child's dental care really starts with his or her mother's healthy pregnancy. That’s why a pregnant mother, have to eat a balanced, nutritious diet and get an adequate amount of vitamins and minerals, and have a complete dental exam and have any cavities or gum disease treated. Usually the first primary teeth begin to break through the gums at about 6 months of age, and they will lose his or her primary teeth between the ages of 6 and 11.

It will be best to start the good oral health habits before the permanent teeth come in. Usually the child dental care starts at 12 months old. At this visit, the dentist will explain the proper brushing and flossing techniques (you need to floss once your baby has two teeth) and conduct a modified exam while your baby sits on your lap.

Such visits can help in the early detection of potential problems, and help kids become used to visiting the dentist so they'll have less fear about going to the dentist as they grow older. After that, schedule regular visits every 6 months or as your dentist recommends. You can help prevent the early childhood tooth decay, by having all the family members’ practices good dental care health habits. There are some basic dental cares that you can start to add in as a good habit at home.

1. Do not put your infant toddlers to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, juice or other products containing sugar, because it can cause tooth decay. As the baby has done the feeding or asleep, remove the bottles immediately. And encourage your baby to begin drinking from a cup when he or she is already 6 months old.
2. Do not share spoons, forks and other utensils with baby, the saliva that may leave there can cause tooth decay. Sometimes even kissing can also transfer bacteria.
3. Help your child to stop sucks his or her fingers.
4. Try to avoid foods that have high sugar and processed carbohydrates, and give nutritious foods to maintain the healthy gums, develop strong teeth and avoid tooth decay.
5. Keep your child away from cigarette smoke even to be a second hand smoke, and as your child grows, teach him or her about the dangers of smoking and second hand smoke.
6. Start cleaning your child's teeth with a soft cloth or gauze pad as soon as the teeth come in, and teach them not to swallow the toothpaste. As they grow up, children can learn how to brush his or her teeth at about 3 years old. A good teaching method is to have your child brush in the morning and at night until your child masters the skill.

Don't be afraid to question the dentist. Giving your child an early start on checkups and good dental hygiene is an effective way to help prevent this kind of extensive dental work. Your partnership with the dentist will help ensure the healthy teeth.