Q. When should my child first see a dentist?

A. “First visit by first birthday” sums it up. Your child should visit a pediatric dentist            

when the first tooth comes in, usually between six and twelve months of age. Early

examination and preventive care will protect your child’s smile now and in the

 future.

Q. Why so early? What dental problems could a baby have?

A. The most important reason is a practical prevention program. Dental problems can

begin early. A big concern is nursing or baby bottle tooth decay. Your baby risks  severe decay when he or she nurses continuously from the breast or from a bottle of  milk, formula or juice during naps or at night. Another concern is gum disease.

Recent studies show nearly half of all children aged two and three have at least mild

inflammation of gums tissues.

Q. When should I start cleaning my baby’s teeth?

A. The sooner the better! Starting at birth, clean your baby’s gums with a clean damp

wash cloth. Use a tiny dab of fluoride toothpaste if your pediatric dentist advises

fluoride protection. Later, brush your child’s teeth with fluoride toothpaste and a             

small, soft-bristled toothbrush. Remember that most small children do not have the

dexterity to brush their teeth effectively.

Q. Any advice on teething?

A. From six months to age three, your child may have sore gums when teeth erupt.

many babies like a clean teething ring, cool spoon or cold wet wash cloth. Some

parents swear by a chilled teething ring; others simply rub the baby’s gums with a

clean finger.

Q. How can I prevent tooth decay from nursing or bottle?

A. Don’t nurse your child to sleep or put your baby to bed with a bottle of milk, formula,

juice, or sweetened liquid. Use only water in the bottle or sippy cup.

Check with your pediatric dentist to make sure your child is getting enough fluoride for     

decay protection. Lastly, learn how to brush and floss your child’s teeth.

Q. Should I worry about thumb or finger sucking?

A . Thumb sucking is perfectly normal for infants, most stop by age two. If your child doesn’t, discourage it after age three. Prolonged thumb sucking can create crowded teeth, crooked teeth, and bite problems.We will be glad to suggest  helpful ways to address a prolonged thumb-sucking habit.