Expert Tips on Oral Health for Babies and Toddlers

As moms, we want to ensure the best start in life for our children but navigating oral health for kids isn’t always easy, especially for new moms.  At times like this, we certainly need the expertise of dental professionals to help guide us through the process.  In partnership with the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), we have some of the best tips from dental experts at AGD on oral health for babies and toddlers.

I feel fortunate that my mother always stressed the importance of good oral health habits.  I’ve carried this into adulthood and it’s certainly lessened the problems I may have encountered. I’ve passed this to my children and always stress with them how important it is to take the best care we can of our teeth.  Of course, I don’t have all the answers and often rely on my dentist to provide them.

In a recent survey conducted by the AGD, studies show that some Americans don’t realize their dental wellness checkups cover much more than hygiene.  From infant through out adulthood dental care is of the utmost importance and your dentist can help you screen for all types of problem areas as well as gift you vital information about the best oral hygiene solutions for caring for your teeth and your child’s.   Check out these expert tips on oral health for babies and toddlers from Dr. Larry Williams of AGD and Midwestern University to help you get started on the right path:

Frequently Asked Questions with Dr. Larry Williams of The Academy of General Dentistry and Midwestern University

When should you first take your child to the dentist?

According to leading experts, the first visit should be when the first tooth erupts or at the first birthday.

When should parents expect their child’s first tooth to come in?

Based on nature’s timetable, teeth can erupt at 3 months or later. If no teeth are erupted by the one-year mark, the dental visit will begin the relationship between the parent, the infant, and the dental team.

What can a parent expect during the first visit for their baby/toddler?

Often a first visit is simply a time to acquaint your child with the dentist and the practice. As a parent, you should reassure your child that the visit is not scary or something about which to be afraid. Short, successive visits can build the child’s comfort with the dentist and the dental office. Schedule the appointment earlier in the day, when your child is alert and refreshed. You may need to sit in the dental chair and hold your child during the first examination. The first visit usually lasts between 15 and 30 minutes and may include any of the following, depending on the child’s age:

• A gentle but thorough examination of the teeth, jaw, bite, gums, and oral tissues to monitor growth and development and observe any problem areas
• A gentle cleaning, which includes polishing teeth and removing any plaque, tartar build-up, and stains
• X-rays
• A demonstration on how to properly care for your child’s mouth and teeth at home
• Nutritional counseling
• An assessment of the need for fluoride

How do you instill good teeth brushing habits at home?

The best way to instill habits is by starting your baby’s oral care regimen at a young age:

• Clean your infant’s gums with a clean, damp cloth twice a day. Ask your dentist when you may begin to rub a tiny dab of toothpaste on your child’s gums. Doing so will help your child become accustomed to the flavor of toothpaste.
• As soon as the first teeth come in, begin brushing them with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized dab of fluoride toothpaste.
• Let your child begin brushing their own teeth around the age of 5 with proper instruction and supervision.

What promotes tooth decay in babies and toddlers?

Just say “no” to bottles in bed. Never put your baby to sleep with a bottle or sippy cup filled with milk, formula, fruit juice, or other sweet liquid. The sugar in these beverages can cause cavities in your baby’s bottle before bedtime. If you must give your baby a bottle when he or she is going to sleep, fill the bottle with water instead.

Are there food items that would be better to avoid introducing to babies and toddlers or to take more care in cleaning the child’s teeth after serving?

It’s important to note that many different types of foods can cause tooth decay in children. For example, foods that are high in sugars such as juices, soda and potato chips and also foods you wouldn’t expect, such as peanut butter, sticky caramel, and even crackers.  When a child eats these types of foods, stick snacks, or drinks sugary drinks like soda or juice that can contribute to tooth decay, it’s important that parents make sure their child’s teeth are getting brushed the recommended daily amount- especially at bedtime.