Here are a list of questions related to infant dental care. Just click on a question to see the answer. Click here to return to list of Question & Answer topics.

When should I start cleaning my baby's teeth?

Advice on infant teething?

When should my child first see a dentist?

What dental problems could a baby have?

How can I prevent tooth decay from nursing or a bottle?

How can I prevent tooth decay?

Should I worry about infant thumb or finger sucking?

When should I start cleaning my baby's teeth?
This is a good habit to start early! The teeth must be cleaned as they erupt. Use a damp wash cloth or a toothbrush.

If your health care provider agrees, use a tiny dab of fluoride toothpaste. Tooth brushing is definitely a parent's job in the preschool years.

Children are usually able to brush their teeth well when they are 8 years old. Be sure to check your child's teeth regularly for any chalky white or brown spots which could be the beginning of tooth decay.

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Advice on infant teething?
Sore gums from teething often occur for a few days at a time between six months to age three. Babies often get relief from a clean teething ring, cool spoon, cold wet washcloth or toothbrush. Chilled teething rings or rubbing a clean finger on the sore gum area often helps too.

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When should my child first see a dentist?
"First visit by first birthday" sums it up. Your child should visit a 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.

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What dental problems could a baby have?
Dental problems can begin early. A big concern is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay (BBTD), which is preventable. BBTD can result from long periods of exposing baby teeth to liquids that contain sugar including formula, milk, breast milk, and juice.

A baby who has a habit of sleeping with a baby bottle filled with any sugary liquid or a breast in their mouth is at risk of getting BBTD. Frequent snacking on sweet or sticky foods can also cause decay.

The earlier the first dental visit, the better chance of preventing dental problems. Children with healthy teeth can chew food well, speak clearly and share precious smiles. Start your child on a lifetime of good dental habits now!

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How can I prevent tooth decay from nursing or a bottle?
Taking your baby off of the breast when he/she falls asleep can prevent baby tooth decay. Hold your baby while bottle feeding. Always take a bottle filled with milk or juice away from the sleeping child.

If your child requires a bottle at bedtime provide a bottle filled with water. Instead of a bottle try comforting your child with a pacifier or a favorite toy or blanket.

Check with your health care provider to make sure your child is getting the right amount of fluoride. Brush your baby's teeth with a soft toothbrush daily.

When should bottle feeding be stopped?
Begin teaching your baby to use a cup by seven months. It's a good idea to introduce juice in a cup. Your baby can be off the bottle by 12 months.

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How can I prevent tooth decay?
Fluoride, in proper dosage, has been shown to significantly reduce dental decay. When fluoridated water is less than the ideal amount or not available, fluoride supplements are recommended. (A call to your local water district is all that is necessary to determine whether your water has fluoride or not.)

When supplements are needed, the administration of fluoride supplements should begin shortly after birth and continue through the time of eruption of the second permanent molars (approx. 12 years of age). Regular dental check-ups should begin no later than 18 months of age.

If you have any questions or need more information, don't hesitate to call.

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Should I worry about infant thumb or finger sucking?
Thumb sucking is perfectly normal for infants; most stop by the age of two. Prolonged (beyond age 5 or 6 years) thumb sucking can create crowded, crooked teeth or bite problems. Your dentist will be glad to suggest ways to address a prolonged thumb-sucking habit.

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