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Good Oral Care for Babies and Children

Did you know?
Recommendations from the Professionals
Other Recommendations from the American Dental Association
KidsHealth.org - information written for teens

Did you know?

	Check to see if your dentist keeps film for dental X-rays in a lead-lined box. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns that although such boxes are no longer needed, some dentists might still be using them. They hold a white dust that's almost pure lead and that can harm you or your children.
	You should start cleaning your baby's gums even before teeth are formed. (Check with a dentist, however, before using fluoridated toothpaste on a baby's gums or teeth).
	It's important to brush your baby's baby teeth daily.
	Even small children can develop infections, halitosis (bad breath), gum disease and tooth loss if their teeth and gums aren't cared for properly.
	Fluoridation of public water has, according to the American Dental Association, "achieved an impressive record for safety and effectiveness in helping to prevent tooth decay."
	Despite the wealth of positive evidence and the dearth of negative evidence, some communities still will not allow fluoridation of public water.
	If your community doesn't have fluoride in its water (ask any local dentist), your child's teeth can still gain a life-long benefit from an inexpensive prescription for fluoride supplements. Adults also can benefit from fluoride rinses. See KidsHealth for an explanation (written for children) of what fluoride is and how it works. KidsHealth also offers an explanation to children of what gum disease is and how to prevent it.
	Children's cavities have been linked to second-hand smoke, according to a study published in the March 12, 2003, issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association. According to the study, children subjected to second-hand smoke had higher levels of cotinine, a byproduct of nicotine. Exposure to the smoke limits the child's body's ability to fight off infection, leading to increased susceptibility to illnesses such as colds and tooth decay.
	If you cannot afford dental care for your child, The American Dental Association or your State Children’s Health Insurance Program - 1-877-KIDSNOW (toll-free number) - might be able to help you.
	See the American Dental Association and/or the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry for more information on dental care.

A few recommendations from the professionals:

	Clean an infant's mouth with a gauze pad or infant washcloth after feedings and before bed.
	Avoid putting the infant to bed with a bottle (this is bad for emerging teeth and also perhaps conducive to ear infections).
	Begin brushing emerging teeth with a soft-bristled infant toothbrush. Clean other areas of the mouth with a gauze pad or washcloth.
	When necessary, begin fluoride supplements as prescribed by a pediatric dentist. (Do not use fluoride on a baby's gums or teeth before checking with a pediatric dentist).
	Ask your pediatric dentist about sealants (a protective coating that covers the teeth) for primary molars and permanent molars.
	Limit snacks between meals to 3-4 per day, and avoid sugary snacks and drinks.
	Children should visit the dentist by age 1 (or sooner if necessary).
	Brushing should be supervised (and assisted) until age 8. A small, circular scrubbing motion is recommended for children.

	Toothbrushes should be changed every 3-4 months.
	Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste (ask your dentist if it should be fluoridated), because younger children tend to swallow it. Teach your child to never swallow the toothpaste. They should also learn to swish water in their mouth after brushing and then spit it out.
	Supervision is required with flossing until the age of 10. (Begin flossing when the teeth are touching).
	Brush twice a day - after breakfast and before bed. Make this a habit for everyone.
	Children should visit the dentist every six months.
	Set a good example by letting them watch you brush and floss. Go to Top

American Dental Association recommendations:

	Infants and Children and Their First Dental Care
	General Dental Care (brushing and flossing)
	Fluoride
	Fluoride in the Drinking Water
	Fluoridation Efficacy and Safety

	Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
	Dental Sealants
	Dental Fillings
	Diet and Dental Health
	Halitosis (Bad Breath)

	Dental Insurance
	Oral Piercings
	Periodontal Disease
	New Dental Technology

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