The American Dental Association (ADA) reminds parents “attitudes and habits established at an early age are critical in maintaining good oral health throughout life.”
Babies: Newborns to Six Months
Your baby’s mouth is like a garden; the real work begins with the first sprout of seedlings, or in your situation, tooth sprouts! When the first teeth erupt, start using a clean, damp cloth to wipe his mouth, focusing on the teeth. The ADA suggests that parents schedule the first dental appointment within 6 months of the eruption of the first tooth. Because, according to ADA Consumer Advisor Kimberly Harms, D.D.S., “tooth decay can occur as soon as teeth appear.”
6 Month-old Babies to Twenty-four Months
When several teeth have appeared, change from a damp cloth to a soft-bristled starter toothbrush and water. If your drinking water is not fluorinated, ask your pediatrician about fluoride supplements. Remember that toddlers imitate everything that you do, so brush and floss in front of your child often.
Mark his first birthday as an important date in his dental health. The ADA suggests that parents encourage their child to drink from a cup by the first birthday. While they recommend scheduling the first dental appointment with the eruption of the first tooth, it should be no later than the first birthday.
Also, don’t be tempted to get him to sleep with nighttime bottles or “sippee cups” of milk, fruit juices, or other sweetened liquids. When left on the teeth they feed the bacteria in the mouth, resulting in tooth decay. If your child needs a comfort item to get to sleep, only offer a cup of water.
Two to Five Years
Choose a toothbrush that’s the right size for little hands. A pea-sized dollop of toothpaste can be used at 2 years, when he understands to spit it out. Begin flossing your child’s teeth as soon as they start to touch. While children develop skills on different timeframes, children under age 8 often need help to do a good job brushing and flossing.
For more information about caring for your child's teeth, check out the American Academy of Pediatric Dentristry's Parent Resource pages.