Tips and resources to support children birth to age five
Early Toothbrushing
Yes, oral hygiene should start early as well. But at what age? When should children be able to brush their own teeth? What baby foods cause tooth decay? Discuss optimal oral care practices and/or share advices here.
Tags: Toohbrushing, baby, children, foods
Views: 4
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Marina Espinoza on -
Infant & Toddler Oral Health:
Gently wipe baby's gums and tongue with a moist baby washcloth or gauze at least once per day
As the first teeth appear, continue to wipe with a washcloth or use an infant-size toothbrush
At six months, offer a cup for water or juice. Never offer juice or pop in bottles.
Use only milk/formula in bottle.
Do not let toddlers sip all day on a bottle or sippy cup.
At 12 months, wean from the bottle to a cup.
Confine eating and drinking to meal or snack times. Constant sipping or snacking can lead to tooth decay.
Have your child's teech checked by the doctor or dentist by his 1st B-day.
Recommnedations provided by the Washington Dental Service Foundation
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Permalink Reply by Marina Espinoza on
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Dental Care for Babies
Teething
Offer a cold, firm, safe teething object like a teething ring or slightly frozen washcloth.
Rub the gums gently with your clean finger.
Cleaning & Brushing
After teeth come in, gently clean teeth and gums with a small soft toothbrush or clean damp cloth and a rice-sized amount of toothpaste.
To Keep Teeth Healthy
If you give your baby a bottle at bedtime or naps - give only water. Other liquids can cause decay if left in your baby's mouth while sleeping.
Avoid sugary & carbohydrate snacks. Sugary foods, drinks and carbohydrate-based foods tend to stick to teeth and give acid more time to destroy teeth. Ideal snacks include cold cuts, cheese & fruit.
Ask your dentist or doctor about flouride drops when your child is 6 months old.
Make sure that your baby's mouth is checked by age one by a dentist or doctor.
Brushing
Brush your child's teeth at least 2 a day. Always brush at bedtime.
Use a small soft toothbrush and rice-sized amount of toothpaste with flouride.
Brush for at least 2 minutes, brushing every surface of every tooth and the tongue.
Replace toothbrush every 3 to 4 months.
Dental Care for Young Children
Lift your child's lip to get a good look at all of the teeth. If you see white or brown spots on your child's teeth, contact your dentist or doctor.
When you think your child is ready, let her practice brushing her own teeth - around 4 or 5. Still brush your child's teeth once daily until she is about 6 or 8 years old.
Take your child for a dental check-up at least once a year.
This information is provided by Washington Dental Service Foundation
© 2012 Created by Foundation for Early Learning.
